Metal Packaging Europe (MPE) welcomes the long-awaited Notice from the European Commission regarding the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), whose application date is fast approaching, 12 August 2026. #

This Notice represents a necessary step toward guiding stakeholders in the implementation of PPWR. However, while MPE acknowledges the Commission’s efforts, we regret that the document falls short of delivering the necessary clarity on several key provisions.

Significant uncertainties remain, particularly regarding the data requirements for technical documentation, notably in relation to substances of concern and more specifically PFAS. In the absence of clear and operational guidance, these provisions risk creating disproportionate complexity, uncertainty, and compliance challenges for economic operators across the value chain.

Further clarification is also required on exemptions related to reuse targets, as well as on how compliance will be ensured across Member States. Without the timely adoption of the necessary implementing and delegated acts, national rules are likely to continue to apply, leading to fragmented enforcement and divergent interpretations by market surveillance authorities.

Krassimira Kazashka, CEO of MPE: “With only 5 months before the PPWR starts to apply, the industry still lacks essential clarity on key requirements. Without further clarification, we risk facing a patchwork of national interpretations that will create unnecessary burdens for companies and hinder the effective implementation of the Regulation.”

MPE calls on the European Commission to urgently provide further clarification and engage closely with packaging stakeholders, to ensure consistent interpretation and a level playing field across the EU.

MPE remains committed to engaging constructively with EU institutions to support an effective and workable implementation of the PPWR.

About MPE

MPE is the united voice of Europe’s rigid metal packaging industry (steel and aluminium), bringing together manufacturers, suppliers, and national associations (metalpackagingeurope.org). We position and support the positive attributes and image of metal packaging through joint advocacy, marketing, sustainability and technical initiatives. The European metal packaging industry produces over 200 billion units annually across 650 manufacturing sites, directly employs more than 60,000 people and plays a vital role in the Circular Economy, supporting numerous value chains and applications, including beverages, food, chemicals, aerosols and others.

info@mpe-eu.com [1]

+32 2 897 04 90

www.metalpackagingeurope.org  [2]