EU packaging rules increase costs for small e-commerce exporters

New European Union packaging regulations are creating significant bureaucratic and financial hurdles for small e-commerce businesses attempting cross-border sales. Business leaders report that the costs associated with registration, reporting, and mandatory authorized representatives in various member states are making smaller markets economically unviable.

For example, Sanmare Trade noted that registering an authorized representative in Portugal can cost nearly 1,100 euros in the first year, excluding additional packaging fees. Due to these requirements, some companies have already ceased sales in several low-volume markets. Bon Vegan reported shifting its export strategy away from e-commerce in markets like Sweden and Ireland, opting instead to focus on traditional retail to navigate the new complexities.

The new EU packaging regulation is set to take effect on August 12, 2026. Industry experts warn that the growing administrative burden could increase consumer prices and make the EU single market less attractive for small-scale digital entrepreneurs.