PPWR: the European Commission publishes the guidance document on the new packaging rule

The document, already made available on 30 March 2026, has now been formally adopted following the completion of the translation process, and marks an important step towards the implementation of the new regulatory framework.

In light of the complexity and the innovative scope of the PPWR, the guidance, complemented by a set of frequently asked questions (FAQs), aims to support economic operators and Member States by providing clarification on the main interpretative issues that have arisen, with the objective of facilitating a uniform and consistent application of the rules across the Union.

For each topic, the guidance sets out a coordinated reading of relevant provisions, recitals and related rules, followed by the Commission’s interpretation, supported by practical examples, summary tables and schematic presentations. From a substantive perspective, it clarifies key definitions such as “packaging”, “producer”, “manufacturer” and “importer”, providing concrete criteria for their application and for the delineation of their objective and subjective scope. Attention is also given to issues of significant operational relevance, including PFAS restrictions in food contact packaging (applicable from 12 August 2026), requirements on recyclability and recycled content targets, as well as provisions on packaging labelling, re-use targets, Deposit and Return Systems (DRS) and compostable packaging.

The document constitutes the Commission’s first interpretative step in the context of a regulatory framework that is still evolving and will be progressively complemented by further delegated and implementing acts. Although it falls within the category of soft law, the guidance is already intended to serve as an essential reference point for economic operators and practitioners involved in the implementation of the new EU framework on packaging.

Authored by Stefano Maccauro and Chiara Vallone.