The PPWR took full effect from 12 August 2026. Its aim is to reduce packaging waste and improve recycling. For SMEs, however, it also means new registration, documentation and reporting requirements. Companies selling across borders can be particularly affected. Depending on their business model, they may need to register with up to 27 national EPR schemes, creating significant extra costs for small online retailers, artists and craft businesses.
Small retailers reduce exports
Since the PPWR came into force, many smaller German online shops have reduced or stopped shipping to other EU countries. An EUWID investigation found examples among more than 30 retailers from different sectors.
Large companies can spread the administrative work and costs more easily. Micro and small businesses often have to gather information from suppliers themselves and pay for additional administration or advice. Selling in several EU countries is especially difficult because requirements differ between countries.
Calls for simpler rules
Trade associations warn that the rules could create a disproportionate administrative burden and affect the free movement of goods. Gitta Connemann (CDU), Chair of the Union for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises and the Federal Government’s Commissioner for SMEs, has also criticised the new bureaucracy.
The Circular Valley Foundation and South Westphalia Chamber of Commerce and Industry are calling for fewer barriers to cross-border trade, standardised packaging solutions and closer cooperation between policymakers and industry. The goal is to make environmental protection and economic feasibility work together.
The EU Commission has published an FAQ to help companies understand the new rules, but the political debate continues. Proposals include simpler documentation and an EU-wide One-Stop-Shop (OSS) system. A petition against the current rules has already collected more than 70,000 signatures.
VERE’s position
VERE supports measures that genuinely simplify the rules and reduce unnecessary environmental bureaucracy. However, some proposals, including the OSS, could also create additional costs for VERE members. They could also make it easier for suppliers from third countries to bring more low-cost products onto the EU market.
VERE discussed these concerns in detail in its “SME survey on the Circular Economy Act.” As the representative of its members’ interests, VERE will continue to closely examine simplification proposals and advocate for its members.
VERE e.V. is in contact with the relevant stakeholders and keeps its members informed of further developments via the “VERE Insider”.
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