German reusable packaging groups seek exemption from planned plastics tax

German reusable packaging companies and the Stiftung Initiative Mehrweg (SIM) are pressing the government to exclude refillable plastic containers from a planned plastics tax of EUR 550 per tonne, due to take effect in July 2027. They argue the levy, intended to curb single-use waste, would instead raise costs for deposit-based reuse systems such as beverage crates and pallets.

Why this mattersA levy covering reusable plastic would add cost to Germany's shared deposit crate and pallet pools, on which brewers, bottlers, wholesalers and retailers depend.

• The proposed German plastics tax is set at EUR 550 per tonne and due to start in July 2027.
• SIM (Stiftung Initiative Mehrweg) is leading calls for reusable packaging to be explicitly exempted.
• Industry groups say the levy as drafted would cover reusable plastic items including crates and pallets used in beverage distribution.
• Brewers, bottlers, wholesalers and retailers relying on shared deposit-return crates and pallets could face higher handling and transport costs.
• Cross-border trade in reusable beverage packaging between neighbouring markets is also cited as a concern.
• The sector is urging lawmakers to clarify the rules well before the July 2027 start date to allow planning of contracts, pricing and procurement.

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