Freiburg narrows packaging tax to disposable cups from 2027

Freiburg City Council in Germany has approved a narrower version of its packaging tax, restricting it from 1 January 2027 to disposable cups used for drinks and ice cream, at EUR 0.50 per cup. The move scales back the broader packaging tax introduced at the start of 2026, while retaining a financial incentive for reusable cup systems.

Why this mattersDropping other takeaway packaging from the tax leaves single-use cups as the only taxed item, keeping a price signal in favour of reusable cup systems.

• Freiburg City Council approved the narrower tax scope in a recent decision.
• The tax applies only to disposable cups for drinks and ice cream from 1 January 2027.
• The rate is EUR 0.50 per cup.
• It replaces a broader packaging tax that took effect at the start of 2026.

Relevant to you? Yes No