New EPR obligations for commercial packaging in France from 2026
As of 1 July 2026, new obligations under extended producer responsibility (EPR) for commercial and industrial packaging will be implemented in France. The objective of the reform is to ensure that companies are held more accountable for ensuring that their packaging is disposed of and recycled in a sustainable manner. The final implementing regulation is scheduled for publication in November 2025.
Who is affected by the new EPR obligations?
The regulation affects companies that:
deliver products directly to French industrial or commercial enterprises,
sell to professional end customers in France via online marketplaces, or
deliver to French distributors – specifically for the packaging used for repackaging, collection and transport that is generated there.
Exception: In the case of sales via a French purchasing centre, the centre itself is responsible for the packaging placed on the market in France.
Which packaging is covered by the EPR regulation?
The new regulations apply to:
Sales packaging
Outer packaging
Collective packaging and
Transport packaging
What companies should bear in mind now
All companies that supply commercial packaging to France or distribute it there should check at an early stage whether they are subject to the new EPR packaging obligations. Depending on the business model, registration with a French take-back system and a quantity report may be required.
Early preparation helps to avoid fines and delivery delays and ensures legally compliant implementation.
