EU states demand exemption for small businesses in packaging rule for international parcels

The regulation primarily affects mail-order businesses and online retailers that ship goods beyond the borders of the EU. To date, manufacturers and retailers have had to comply with requirements regarding the reduction, reuse, and recyclability of packaging. An exemption for small firms would mean that they would have to bear less bureaucracy and could focus on their core business.

Background of the debate

The background is a debate that has been ongoing for months about the relationship between environmental goals and burdens on small businesses. While environmental organizations are pushing for a consistent reduction in packaging waste, business associations are warning against excessive bureaucracy. The EU Commission had originally presented the draft regulation as part of the Green Deal.

Within the European Parliament, the issue is controversial. Some members of parliament see an exemption for small businesses as a pragmatic compromise, while others fear loopholes that could dilute the ecological impact of the rule. The final vote is still pending.

Positions in the European Parliament

Among the EU states calling for an exemption are, according to dpa information, several member countries whose economic structure is strongly shaped by small and medium-sized enterprises. Germany is also said to be among the supporters of such a regulation. In the negotiations between the Council and Parliament, the aim now is to find a common line.

The EU Commission emphasizes that the packaging regulation is a central element of the European circular economy strategy. Should an exemption for small businesses be decided, they would still have to comply with basic minimum standards, such as those regarding the recyclability of materials.

Outlook on the negotiations

Observers assume that the discussion will enter its decisive phase in the coming weeks. Should the Council and Parliament agree on a compromise, the regulation could enter into force in the second half of 2027. Affected businesses could adjust their processes in the meantime.

Critics also warn that an overly broad exemption could endanger the goal of significantly reducing packaging waste in the EU. Supporters point to the already heavy burden on small businesses from documentation and reporting requirements.

In Berlin, the federal government has so far expressed itself cautiously, but emphasized the importance of the Mittelstand for the German economy. A final position would be developed in coordination with the other EU member states, government circles said.