EU Packaging Regulation Hits Czech E‑shops with New PFAS Ban and Recycling Fees

The European Union has adopted a new packaging waste regulation that takes effect in August. It bans the use of PFAS chemicals in food‑contact packaging and expands the definition of "producer" to include anyone who imports goods in packaging, operates an e‑shop, or supplies packaged goods to customers. As a result, thousands of Czech e‑shops must now keep conformity declarations and technical documentation for their packaging.

The rules also introduce fees that vary with the recyclability of the material, mandatory harmonised labels from 2028, QR codes on reusable packaging from 2029, and a limit that no more than 50 % of a parcel may be empty space by 2030. From 2027, restaurants will have to allow customers to bring their own containers. Czech firms and the Ministry of Environment warn that the lack of detailed implementation guidance could cause chaos and raise costs, with EU‑wide impact estimates up to €54 billion and possible price increases for consumers.