September 3, 2026 | 3 minute read

New EU Packaging and EPR Rules: What They Mean for Your Shop

An update on new EU packaging and EPR rules that may affect your Etsy shop if you sell to buyers across the European Union.

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As of August 12, 2026, new EU rules under the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) may require you to register and report on your packaging if you sell to buyers across the EU. Depending on the EU countries you sell to, you may need to take some of the steps below.

What this could mean for your shop

If you sell packaged goods to buyers across the EU as part of your business, you may have packaging compliance and labeling obligations under the PPWR. You may also qualify as a “producer” under PPWR and applicable national Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) laws.

Depending on the country you sell to, the products you sell, and where your business is established, you may need to:

  • Register with the applicable national producer register in each EU country where you sell
  • Provide your EPR registration numbers and self-certifications to Etsy in Shop Manager. Etsy currently collects EPR numbers for France, Germany and Spain, with more countries to follow as their registers come online.
  • Appoint an Authorized Representative (AR) in EU countries where you're not established
  • Report packaging quantities to the national producer register
  • Participate in a compliance scheme, such as a Producer Responsibility Organization, and pay EPR fees to help fund packaging collection and recycling

For more information, see our Help Center articles on EPR in France, Germany, and Spain.

How to add your EPR registration numbers on Etsy

If you have EPR registration numbers, you can add them in Shop Manager:

  1. Go to Shop Manager
  2. Go to Finances
  3. Select Legal and tax information
  4. Go to Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Registrations and select Add info under the applicable country

Some details are still evolving

Some implementation details of the PPWR are still being finalized, and not every EU country's system is at the same stage—some already have national registers in place, while others are still developing theirs. As a result, your obligations may vary depending on which EU countries you sell to and your individual business circumstances. It is your responsibility to meet any applicable EPR obligations that apply to your business, so we recommend consulting a qualified legal or compliance professional to understand what applies to your business and how to comply.

Upcoming EU reforms may simplify requirements

We’ve heard from sellers that navigating packaging and EPR requirements across the EU can be complex, especially when selling across borders. Etsy continues to advocate with EU policymakers for simpler, more proportionate requirements for small businesses. Upcoming reforms, including the Environmental Omnibus and Circular Economy Act, may affect how these rules apply in the future.

Disclaimer: This information is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Etsy is not responsible for losses arising from reliance on this information. Please consult a qualified legal professional about your specific circumstances.

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