Do not place on the market packaging failing the Annex IV performance criteria, or packaging whose features exist only to increase perceived product volume -- double walls, false bottoms, unnecessary layers.
Manufacturers and importers of packaging are prohibited, and this is law in force.
Why it matters
This is law in force, not a proposal.
- It is Art. 10(2), in the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation. as of 2026-08-18
- The act gives its timing as: By 1 January 2030 (Art. 10(1)). as of 2026-08-18
- It names 7 industries by name: Plastics converting, Paper and board, Glass, Aluminium, Wood, Food and drink and Retail. as of 2026-08-18
- Compliance is checked by technical documentation (Annex VII), continuous. as of 2026-08-18
What changes
Cosmetics, confectionery and gift packaging most directly. Art. 10(2) exempts designs protected as a Community design or trademark before 11 February 2025 where compliance would destroy the novelty or distinctiveness, and packaging for geographical-indication or quality-scheme products.
The rule
packaging design with volume-inflating features
Do not place on the market packaging failing the Annex IV performance criteria, or packaging whose features exist only to increase perceived product volume -- double walls, false bottoms, unnecessary layers.
Who is affected
Burden drivers
No size threshold.
Source text
packaging with characteristics that aim only to increase the perceived volume of the product, including double walls, false bottoms and unnecessary layers, is not placed on the market
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