Czech businesses warn of chaos over new EU packaging regulations

New provisions of the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) are set to take effect on August 12, introducing requirements for technical documentation and limits on PFAS chemicals in food packaging. However, businesses in the Czech Republic and across the EU report significant unpreparedness due to a lack of clear guidance and methodologies.

A survey by the Czech Chamber of Commerce revealed that only 3.4% of surveyed companies feel prepared for these changes, with many citing a lack of information and missing implementing acts as primary obstacles. Concerns have been raised regarding the scarcity of accredited laboratories capable of testing for PFAS; currently, only six such laboratories exist in the EU, with none located in the Czech Republic.

Industry representatives warn that the regulation could lead to high costs and administrative chaos for the chemical, packaging, food, and e-commerce sectors. While the regulation aims to ensure all packaging is recyclable by 2030, companies face immediate challenges regarding supply chain responsibility and complex compliance procedures.