German retailers demand PPWR grace period until 2028

The German Retail Association (HDE) has called for an EU-wide grace period until 1 January 2028 for enforcement of the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation, citing missing technical standards and guidelines. The PPWR has applied since 12 August 2026, but HDE argues companies cannot yet fully comply and wants fines, sales bans and recalls suspended for firms that have demonstrably started implementation.

Why this mattersA grace period would delay compliance costs and enforcement risk for every packaging producer and brand owner selling into the EU.

• HDE seeks an EU-wide grace period running to 1 January 2028 for PPWR enforcement.
• PPWR has been in force since 12 August 2026.
• HDE wants fines, sales bans and product recalls waived for companies that have demonstrably begun implementation.
• The call also covers implementing regulations already issued and still to be issued under the PPWR.
• Statement made by Johannes Graf Keyserlingk, HDE's Head of Sustainability.

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