Kazakhstan's Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources has issued Order No. 273, changing from 21 December 2026 how producers and importers that run their own waste collection and recycling systems must prove they have met their extended producer responsibility obligations. Confirmation documents will go directly to the EPR operator rather than the state authority, filed twice yearly, broken down by applicant status and product category, with stricter checks on document completeness and chronology; companies that fail to confirm compliance must instead pay a recycling fee under contract with the operator.
Why this mattersTighter, operator-run verification raises compliance risk for producers relying on self-managed recycling, pushing some toward the fee-based alternative.
- New rules take effect 21 December 2026 under Order No. 273 of Kazakhstan's Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources, dated 15 October 2026
- Producers and importers using their own collection and recycling systems must now file confirmation documents directly with the EPR operator instead of the authorised state body
- Filings are required twice a year, by the 20th of the month following each reporting half-year, in electronic or paper form
- Obligations must be confirmed separately for each applicant status (producer or importer) and for each product type
- The EPR operator has 20 working days to check document completeness and legibility, with 15 working days given to fix any issues
- Companies that cannot confirm compliance via their own system must instead sign a contract with the EPR operator and pay a recycling fee
The United States has revised the range of Canadian-origin goods subject to its additional 50% Section 338 duty. It removes corrugated boxes, some paper sacks and bags, moulded pulp articles and plastic-coated bleached paperboard, and adds unbleached kraft paper, self-adhesive paper, pressure-sensitive labels and other graphic and coated paper grades. The changes apply to goods entered from 12:01 a.m. eastern time on 30 October 2026, on top of any Section 232 duties. It is the second revision of coverage since the duties took effect on 22 August 2026, after one on 8 September.
Why this mattersA further reshuffle of which Canadian paper, board and label categories face a 50% US duty changes sourcing costs and competitiveness for converters and brand owners trading across the border.
- Changes take effect for goods entered for consumption at or after 12:01 a.m. eastern time on 30 October 2026
- Removed from the 50% duty: corrugated boxes (HTSUS 4819.10.00), other paper sacks and bags (4819.40.00), moulded and other pulp articles (4823.70.00, 4823.90.10) and plastic-coated bleached paper and paperboard over 150 g/m² (4811.51.20, 4811.51.40)
- Newly added to the 50% duty: unbleached kraft paper (4804.31.60), self-adhesive paper (4811.41.10), plastic-coated printing and other paper (4811.59.20, 4811.59.40), paper sacks with a base of 40 cm or wider (4819.30.00) and unprinted pressure-sensitive labels (4821.90.20)
- The Section 338 duties apply in addition to duties under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962
- The 50% duty took effect on 22 August 2026 after a three-day suspension under Proclamation 11056; Proclamation 11065 first revised the coverage on 8 September 2026
- The duties stem from Proclamation 11048, based on a determination that Canadian motor-vehicle tariff arrangements discriminated against US commerce
Keep Sweden Tidy reports that use of plastic carrier bags covered by Sweden's national reduction target rose 45% to 248 million in 2025 compared with 2023, after the government abolished the plastic bag tax in November 2024. Use of thin bags for fruit and vegetables rose 65% year on year, and total single-use plastic bag use exceeded 400 million in 2025, with the NGO warning of increased littering.
Why this mattersThe reversal shows a fiscal levy's removal can quickly undo demand reduction, a signal for other markets weighing plastic bag taxes or their repeal.
- 248 million plastic carrier bags covered by Sweden's national reduction target were used in 2025, up 45% versus 2023
- Sweden abolished its plastic bag tax in November 2024
- Use of very thin plastic bags for fruit and vegetables rose 65% in 2025 versus 2024
- Total single-use plastic bag use in Sweden exceeded 400 million units in 2025
- Keep Sweden Tidy Foundation published the data in a press release
FEVE, the European container glass trade association, has called on EU co-legislators to finalise heat and fuel fallback benchmarks for 2026-2030 using the full flexibility available to limit cuts to free carbon allowances under the EU Emissions Trading System. The association backs the Council's proposal to add roughly 33 million allowances to the Commission's 88 million, drawn from unmet free-allocation conditionality, to offset reductions across both benchmarks.
Why this mattersFree-allocation cuts directly raise carbon costs for energy-intensive glass container makers, a core input cost for the wine, spirits, food and beverage packaging supply chain.
- FEVE calls for the final 2026-2030 heat and fuel fallback benchmark agreement to minimise reductions in free EU ETS allowances
- The Council's General Approach proposes adding about 33 million allowances to the Commission's 88 million to mitigate benchmark cuts
- FEVE urges co-legislators to finalise the agreement without further delay or dilution
- Statement published by FEVE on 28 October 2026
The New South Wales government has dropped two reuse measures from its Plastics Plan 2.0, abandoning a requirement for cafes to offer mugs or glasses to dine-in customers and a mandate for large foodservice businesses to offer reusable takeaway cups from 2030. Requirements to accept customers' own clean reusable cups from January 2028 and for single-use takeaway coffee cups to be recyclable from 2028 remain in place. The NSW EPA said on 28 October 2026 it would not enforce the new reuse-scheme obligation under the Plastic Reduction and Circular Economy Act 2021, drawing criticism from three environment groups.
Why this mattersA reversal of a mandated reuse-system obligation for foodservice packaging removes a near-term demand driver for reusable cup systems and keeps disposable recyclable cups as the compliance default.
- NSW government announced the reversal on 28 October 2026, days after Parliament passed the reforms.
- Cafes will no longer be required to offer mugs or glasses to dine-in customers from 2028.
- Large foodservice businesses will no longer be required to offer reusable takeaway cups through reuse systems from 2030.
- NSW EPA will not enforce new section 34C of the Plastic Reduction and Circular Economy Act 2021.
- Retained: requirement to accept customers' clean reusable cups from January 2028, and recyclability requirement for single-use takeaway coffee cups from 2028.
- Boomerang Alliance, the Australian Marine Conservation Society and Clean Up Australia jointly criticised the decision on 28 October 2026.
Cepi, the European paper industry association, has issued an updated guidance document on the EU Deforestation Regulation, which takes effect on 30 December 2026. The revised edition replaces Cepi's June 2025 guide and folds in the December 2025 amendment, the European Commission's May 2026 simplification package and subsequent 2026 secondary legislation. Cepi will present the document at a Cepinar in November 2026.
Why this mattersPulp and paper producers and converters gain a common reference for EUDR compliance ahead of the regulation's application date.
- EUDR applies from 30 December 2026
- Cepi's updated guidance replaces its June 2025 edition
- Guidance reflects the December 2025 amendment to the Regulation
- Guidance incorporates the Commission's May 2026 simplification package and 2026 secondary legislation
- Cepi will present the document at a Cepinar in November 2026
Kazakhstan's Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources has released 122.6 billion tenge in recycling-fee revenue to fund 34 waste management infrastructure projects, part of 67 approved projects worth 440 billion tenge. State-linked EPR operator Zhasyl Damu is financing new recycling plants, sorting complexes and equipment purchases, adding a combined 1.08 million tonnes per year of sorting and recycling capacity.
Why this mattersA large recurring recycling-fee pool is being channelled into sorting and recycling capacity, a funding model other extended-producer-responsibility regimes may watch.
- 122.6 billion tenge allocated to 34 projects as of 27 October 2026
- 67 projects worth 440 billion tenge approved in total by the Investment Headquarters
- Six funded projects add 650,000 tonnes/year of sorting capacity
- 18 projects add a combined 435,000 tonnes/year of recycling capacity
- 10 projects fund purchase of 177 units of specialised equipment
- 15 projects already commissioned, adding 290,000 tonnes/year sorting and 19,300 tonnes/year recycling capacity
Croatia's Environmental Protection and Energy Efficiency Fund opened a public call on 27 October 2026 for collectors to handle up to 150,000 tonnes of paper and board packaging waste, with final recycling to take place abroad. The closure of paper production at DS Smith Belišće Croatia in November 2025 left the fund without a contracted domestic processor. The fund said waste firms holding Ministry authorisations had declared they could not sign contracts on its prescribed terms.
Why this mattersWith no domestic processor under contract, Croatia's recovered paper and board must now be exported, showing how one mill closure can strand a national collection system.
- Croatia's Environmental Protection and Energy Efficiency Fund opened a public call on 27 October 2026 for collection and processing of up to 150,000 tonnes of paper and board packaging waste
- Final recycling of the collected waste must take place abroad as no domestic processor is currently under contract
- DS Smith Belišće Croatia was the main contracted domestic processor until paper production in Belišće stopped in November 2025
- According to the fund, firms holding Ministry authorisations said they could not sign contracts under the prescribed terms
- CE-ZA-R, Metis and Nevkoš, of the C.I.O.S. group, had held authorisations and were in contract talks in 2025
- The fund had previously said it planned to contract additional domestic processors to reduce reliance on a single dominant operator
Elopak reported third-quarter 2026 group EBITDA of EUR 51.9m, a 16.8% margin and the highest quarterly figure in its history, on revenue of EUR 308.4m, up 6.5% year on year. Americas EBITDA fell 8.2% to EUR 20.1m as board supply disruption linked to the Nippon incident limited volume growth, while EMEA posted adjusted EBITDA of EUR 44.5m, a 20.4% margin, on revenue up 7.5%.
Why this mattersA leading carton maker's results show European carton demand and pricing holding up while a single supplier disruption still constrains its US growth and margins.
- Q3 2026 group EBITDA was EUR 51.9m at a 16.8% margin, the highest quarterly EBITDA in company history
- Q3 group revenue was EUR 308.4m, up 6.5% year on year (6.0% at constant currency)
- Americas revenue rose 5.9% to EUR 97.5m but EBITDA fell 8.2% to EUR 20.1m, margin 20.6% from 23.8%, on board supply disruption linked to the Nippon incident
- Supply disruption cost EUR 2.6m in Q3 not yet covered by insurance; group margin would have been about 17.5% without it
- EMEA revenue was EUR 218.1m, up 7.5%, with adjusted EBITDA of EUR 44.5m, a 20.4% margin
- Adjusted EPS rose 37.8% to EUR 0.09; leverage held at 2.2x
- Washington's Department of Labor & Industries fined Nippon Dynawave Packaging Company more than $77,000 over the April 2026 incident at its paper mill.
- A worker waded into pulp at about 145 degrees Fahrenheit to close a drain valve and nearly fell into a concealed four-foot sinkhole.
- Regulators cited the company for failing to protect workers from extreme-heat and engulfment hazards.
South African packaging group Transpaco says in its annual report that the Competition Commission prohibited its proposed purchase of retail plastic bag maker Premier Plastics for about USD 7.7m (ZAR 128m) during its financial year to end-June. Revenue for the year rose 0.7% to USD 0.14bn (ZAR 2.4bn) and operating profit rose 3.1% to USD 12.9m (ZAR 214.1m). Chair Derek Thomas said leakage in the plastic bag levy system disadvantages producers that comply.
Why this mattersThe prohibition limits consolidation by South Africa's largest retail plastic bag maker, while levy leakage leaves compliant converters competing against non-compliant ones.
- Competition Commission prohibited Transpaco's proposed purchase of Premier Plastics for about USD 7.7m (ZAR 128m)
- Premier Plastics is a retail plastic bag manufacturer
- Revenue for the year to end-June rose 0.7% to USD 0.14bn (ZAR 2.4bn)
- Operating profit rose 3.1% to USD 12.9m (ZAR 214.1m); headline earnings rose 4.3% to USD 9.2m (ZAR 153.5m)
- South African retail plastic bags must contain 75% post-consumer recycled material, rising to 100% next year
- Chair Derek Thomas said leakage in the plastic bag levy system disadvantages compliant producers
China's State Administration for Market Regulation has published a revised recommended national standard for biopolyester polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) blown film, covering film for commodity packaging, which takes effect on 1 April 2027. According to the report, the standard gives film producers and packaging buyers a more specific technical basis and prompts companies to distinguish material biodegradability from a finished pack's performance in use.
Why this mattersA defined performance standard gives converters and brand owners a common technical basis to qualify PHA film, a precondition for scaling biodegradable packaging beyond pilot use.
- The revised recommended national standard is titled Biopolyester Polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) Blown Film
- It is one of two revised biodegradable-material standards published by the State Administration for Market Regulation
- The standard takes effect on 1 April 2027
- It covers blown film used for commodity packaging
Industry representatives say GST refunds have been stuck for months for many of Ludhiana's more than 600 corrugated and paperboard box manufacturing units, caused by an inverted duty structure that taxes finished cartons at 5% while raw materials such as kraft and duplex paper are taxed at 18%. Some refunds have been pending since January and February 2026, manufacturers say, while paper prices have risen nearly 30% over the past year, squeezing margins further. Industry bodies have asked the government to streamline refunds and scrap the inverted duty structure.
Why this mattersA prolonged working-capital squeeze across a major Indian corrugated cluster could cut output and orders, with knock-on effects for paper suppliers and packaging customers.
- Ludhiana has more than 600 corrugated box manufacturing units, according to the Punjab Corrugated Box Manufacturers Association
- Cartons, boxes and cases attract 5% GST while kraft paper, duplex paper and paperboard are taxed at 18%
- GST refunds have been pending for several manufacturers since January and February 2026
- Paper prices have risen nearly 30% over the past year
- A duplex and kraft paper supplier reports customers placing fewer and smaller orders due to liquidity issues
- Industry associations have called for an automated refund mechanism and a uniform tax structure across the supply chain
The US Commerce Department's International Trade Administration has initiated less-than-fair-value investigations into imports of certain corrugated die-cut cardboard boxes from China, Malaysia and Türkiye, according to a Federal Register notice published on 26 October 2026. The anti-dumping investigations are the first stage before any duties could be set.
Why this mattersA finding of dumping could lead to anti-dumping duties, reshaping US import flows and pricing for corrugated packaging from these three countries.
- The International Trade Administration's initiation notice was published on 26 October 2026
- Investigations cover certain corrugated die-cut cardboard boxes
- Three origins are named: China, Malaysia and Türkiye
- The Federal Register document number is 2026-21783
- Less-than-fair-value investigations are the anti-dumping stage that precedes any duty determination
The US Commerce Department has initiated an antidumping investigation into specified corrugated die-cut food-service boxes from Malaysia, China and Turkey, with the initiation notice published on 26 October 2026 and alleged Malaysian dumping margins of 83.72% to 116.58%. Exporters face quantity-and-value responses by 2 November, scope comments by 9 November and scope rebuttals by 19 November, with the US International Trade Commission's preliminary injury determination expected around 13 November.
Why this mattersMalaysian shipments under the relevant tariff code roughly tripled by value in 2025; the case could add duties on die-cut food-service boxes from three supplier countries.
- US Commerce Department initiation notice published 26 October 2026, applicable from 19 October 2026, covers Malaysia, China and Turkey.
- Alleged Malaysian dumping margins range from 83.72% to 116.58%, figures used only to open the case, not final duties.
- Quantity-and-value responses are due 2 November, scope comments 9 November, scope rebuttals 19 November 2026.
- US import value of the relevant tariff category from Malaysia rose from about USD 2.02m in 2024 to USD 5.94m in 2025.
- Recorded import volume from Malaysia under the category rose from about 1.82m kg to 6.08m kg over the same period.
- The US International Trade Commission's preliminary injury determination is expected around 13 November 2026.
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.
Pakistan's National Tariff Commission has imposed a provisional 9.03% anti-dumping duty on imports of Alu Alu Foil pharmaceutical packaging material from China, for four months. The measure follows a complaint by domestic producer Zenith Packages Industries and a finding that dumped Chinese imports caused material injury to the local industry. A final determination is due within 180 days of the preliminary notice.
Why this mattersThe duty raises input costs for Pakistani blister-pack converters sourcing Chinese aluminium-polymer laminate and may shift demand toward domestic foil suppliers.
- Provisional anti-dumping duty set at 9.03%, equal to the injury margin rather than the full dumping margin.
- Duty applies to Cold Forming Foil and Tropical Foil under PCT codes 7607.1990 and 7607.2000.
- Investigation launched 23 July 2026 after a complaint by Zenith Packages Industries (Pvt.) Limited, Lahore.
- Duty remains in force for four months from publication of the notice.
- Dumping period assessed was April 2025-March 2026; injury period April 2023-March 2026.
- Chinese exporter Yangzhou Jerel Pharmaceutical New Material Co. Ltd. responded to the NTC's exporter questionnaire.
Hong Kong's Environmental Protection Department cut the mainland China export allowance for waste paper under its collection contracts to zero from October 2026, routing collected paper to the recycled-pulp mill at Tuen Mun EcoPark, which began operating in July. The change also ended an export subsidy of HKD 400 (USD 51) per tonne; balers say their margins are now thin or negative, and one Hong Kong Island operator has cut five of its twelve staff. The department says exports to other markets are not banned and the transition has been broadly smooth.
Why this mattersA government-mandated switch from export to domestic pulping is reshaping Hong Kong's recovered-paper supply chain and the export flows that feed mainland Chinese mills.
- The Tuen Mun EcoPark recycled-pulp mill began operating in July 2026
- From October 2026 contractors' export caps for waste paper to mainland China were set at zero, directing supply to the mill
- The change ended an export subsidy of HKD 400 (USD 51) per tonne
- One Hong Kong Island baler's volumes fell from 3,500 tonnes in July to 2,773 tonnes in September and 960 tonnes in the first half of October; it cut five of twelve staff
- The mill buys waste paper at HKD 1,200-1,295 (USD 153-165) per tonne; recyclers say transport and handling costs leave thin or negative margins
- The department says overseas exports are not banned and January-September 2026 recovery of about 410,000 tonnes was similar to a year earlier
A bill introduced in the Argentine Senate by Senator Edith Terenzi would create a national extended producer responsibility regime for domestic and imported packaging. Companies first placing packaged products on the Argentine market would have to organise and fund recovery and recycling through collective management systems or deposit-return schemes. Fines would range from 100 to 1,000 times a public-sector minimum salary, up to about ARS 577m. The bill has not been passed.
Why this mattersA national EPR law would make Argentine packaging producers and importers fund collection and recycling, adding cost and reporting duties for brand owners.
- Senator Edith Terenzi's bill revives a proposal first filed in the Chamber of Deputies by former deputy Carlos González D'Alessandro
- Scope covers packaging made in Argentina and imported, plus disposable trays, plates and cups used to sell food and drink; export packaging is excluded
- Two compliance routes: non-profit producer consortia (Integrated Management Systems) and deposit, return and refund systems
- Article 24 sets fines of 100 to 1,000 minimum salaries of the national public administration's basic entry grade
- Argentina generates about 16.5 million tonnes of waste a year, and 34.4% is handled through open dumps or controlled landfills, the bill states
Kazakhstan's Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources has approved, by order of 9 October 2026, a standard contract governing utilisation (recycling) fee payments between operator Zhasyl Damu and producers and importers, effective 24 October 2026. The contract covers products and packaging subject to extended producer responsibility and sets procedures for filing applications, invoicing within three working days, payment and issuance of a compliance certificate.
Why this mattersProducers and importers selling packaged goods into Kazakhstan get a fixed EPR payment procedure, and the operator can reject applications with incomplete or inconsistent documents.
- Standard contract approved by Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources order No. 264 of 9 October 2026
- Takes effect 24 October 2026
- Applies to products and packaging under extended producer responsibility (EPR)
- Operator Zhasyl Damu must issue an invoice within three working days of a correctly completed application via app.recycle.kz
- Extended producer responsibility obligations are considered fulfilled from the date the certificate is issued
- Producers and importers must ensure the certificate is passed to the end buyer when products are sold
A US presidential proclamation signed on 23 October 2026 removes certain Canadian plywood sheets, plastic packing boxes and bags, corrugated paper cartons and some packing machinery from the additional 50% Section 338 tariff, for goods entered from 12:01 a.m. Eastern time on 30 October. The same order adds other Canadian products, including sweetened cocoa powder, certain carpets and valves, while the broader 50% measure on Canadian goods stays in place.
Why this mattersUS converters and distributors sourcing specific Canadian paper, plywood and plastic packaging lines gain tariff relief, though other duties and the wider measure still apply.
- Proclamation signed 23 October 2026, effective for goods entered from 12:01 a.m. Eastern time on 30 October 2026
- Removed items include thin plywood sheets, plastic packing boxes and bags, corrugated paper cartons and some other paper products
- Removed items also include listed agricultural sorting equipment and certain packing or wrapping machinery
- Products removed lose the additional 50% duty under Section 338 of the Tariff Act of 1930, but other tariffs including Section 232 duties can still apply
- Items added to the tariff list include sweetened cocoa powder, certain carpets, valves and waste products
- Section 338 duties apply even to goods qualifying as originating under the USMCA, according to the White House
Quebec Beverage Container Recycling Association (QBCRA), branded Consignaction, has rebutted criticism from existing glass processors over its plan to build a new plant to package glass collected under the province's deposit-refund scheme. QBCRA says a Deloitte study found insufficient existing industrial capacity to meet producers' extended producer responsibility obligations, and it has pledged to preserve current volumes handled by incumbent processor 2M Ressources.
Why this mattersThe dispute shows how EPR-driven infrastructure build-out can clash with incumbent recyclers' commercial interests as deposit schemes expand glass collection volumes.
- QBCRA/Consignaction confirmed on 23 October 2026 it will proceed with a new glass processing plant for deposit-refund glass in Quebec.
- A Deloitte study commissioned by QBCRA's board found no sufficient existing industrial capacity to package deposit-refund glass and meet regulatory compliance.
- QBCRA has committed to maintaining current glass volumes handled by incumbent processor 2M Ressources, which also sends glass for remelting.
- Bellemare Group, which has not previously packaged deposit-refund glass, has been offered negotiations to secure volumes including possible financial concessions.
- Vision Environnement Group currently lacks the packaging facilities and environmental permits needed for the activity, according to QBCRA.
- QBCRA president and CEO Normand Bisson said refusal to acknowledge its volume commitment to existing packagers amounts to bad faith.
The US Commerce Department has launched antidumping investigations into corrugated pizza boxes imported from Turkey, China and Malaysia, alongside a countervailing-duty investigation into Turkish imports. The probes could lead to import duties on the paperboard packaging if dumping or subsidisation is confirmed.
Why this mattersDuties on pizza-box imports would reshape US sourcing for fibre packaging converters and open opportunity for domestic box makers.
- US Commerce Department opened the investigations on 23 October 2026.
- Antidumping investigation covers pizza boxes from Turkey, China and Malaysia.
- Antisubsidy (countervailing-duty) investigation covers pizza box imports from Turkey only.
The New South Wales government has passed legislation under its Plastics Ban 2.0 programme requiring single-use takeaway coffee cups to be recyclable from 2028. From the same date cafes must offer a mug or glass for dine-in customers and accept clean keep cups for takeaway, while reusable cup-borrowing schemes remain voluntary for small businesses. The state says almost 800 million single-use cups are used in NSW each year.
Why this mattersA staged ban on non-recyclable cups in Australia's most populous state pressures foodservice cup makers to shift material and supply chains ahead of 2028.
- NSW has passed the rules under its Plastics Ban 2.0 programme, as reported on 23 October 2026
- From 2028 single-use takeaway coffee cups must be recyclable
- From 2028 cafes must offer a mug or glass for dine-in customers instead of a disposable cup
- Cafes must accept clean, hygienic keep cups for takeaway from 2028
- Reusable cup-borrowing schemes will be voluntary for small businesses
- NSW estimates nearly 800 million single-use cups are used in the state each year
CMPC's proposed Natureza eucalyptus pulp project in Barra do Ribeiro, Brazil, has received a preliminary environmental licence from state regulator Fepam, handed over on 23 October 2026. The BRL 27bn (USD 5.0bn) development would add a new mill with design capacity of 3m tonnes a year of bleached eucalyptus kraft pulp alongside CMPC's existing Guaiba mill, plus a BRL 1.5bn (USD 280m) export terminal at Rio Grande port. The approval only establishes environmental viability; CMPC must still obtain an installation licence before construction can start.
Why this mattersA 3m-tonne greenfield line would add materially to global bleached eucalyptus kraft pulp supply, though CMPC still needs an installation licence before construction can start.
- Rio Grande do Sul regulator Fepam granted a preliminary environmental licence on 23 October 2026 for CMPC's Natureza pulp project in Barra do Ribeiro
- Project cost is estimated at BRL 27bn (USD 5.0bn), including BRL 1.5bn (USD 280m) for an export terminal at Rio Grande port
- Fepam states design capacity of 3m tonnes a year of bleached eucalyptus kraft pulp, up from the 2.5m tonnes previously cited by CMPC
- CMPC's existing Guaiba mill would continue operating alongside the new plant
- Projected employment reaches 12,000 at peak construction, falling to about 800 direct and 1,500 contractor roles in operation
- The preliminary licence confirms environmental viability only; CMPC still needs an installation licence before construction can begin
A White House proclamation dated 23 October 2026 removes the 50% tariff on a group of Canadian goods including corrugated boxes, crates, plastic sacks, packing machinery and refrigeration equipment, while adding the same 50% rate to shampoo, vinyl flooring, coffins, carpets and window air conditioners. The changes take effect 30 October 2026; the underlying 50% tariffs, covering about USD 20bn of Canadian products, were imposed in late August 2026 after US-Canada trade talks broke down.
Why this mattersUS growers and packers buying Canadian corrugated boxes, crates and packing machinery avoid a 50% duty from 30 October, easing packaging and equipment costs.
- White House proclamation dated 23 October 2026 lowers the 50% tariff on a list of Canadian goods, effective 30 October 2026
- Exempted goods include corrugated boxes, crates, plastic sacks, packing machinery, refrigeration equipment and seaweed, per CBS News
- Newly subject to 50% duties: shampoo, vinyl flooring, coffins, carpets and window-unit air conditioners
- The original 50% tariffs covered about USD 20bn of Canadian products and were imposed in late August 2026 after trade talks with Canada failed
- US importers, not foreign exporters, pay the tariffs and must pass on or absorb the cost, according to the Associated Press
- Maine Senator Susan Collins cited reliance by wild blueberry, apple and potato growers on Canadian harvesting boxes and packaging equipment as a reason for the exemptions
China's State Administration for Market Regulation has published a recommended national standard for polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) blown film used in commodity packaging, effective 1 April 2027. The standard defines technical requirements so converters and brand owners can verify film performance rather than relying on general biodegradability claims.
Why this mattersA defined performance standard lets Chinese converters and brand owners qualify PHA film against incumbent plastics on tested criteria rather than marketing claims.
- China's State Administration for Market Regulation published two revised recommended national standards in the biodegradables field, including one for PHA blown film for commodity packaging
- The PHA blown film standard takes effect on 1 April 2027
- The standard gives material makers and packaging buyers specific technical criteria for film performance
Eurostat data show the EU generated 81.5 million tonnes of packaging waste in 2024, or 181.0 kg per inhabitant, up 3.2 kg on 2023 and 19.6 kg above 2014 levels. Plastic packaging waste rose to 35.9 kg per person while its recycling rate improved to 42.4%, with wide gaps between member states.
Why this mattersRising per-capita waste despite better recycling rates underlines the gap EU producers and converters must close to meet PPWR reduction and recycled-content targets.
- EU packaging waste generation reached 81.5 million tonnes in 2024, or 181.0 kg per inhabitant, up 3.2 kg year on year
- Per-capita packaging waste rose 19.6 kg between 2014 and 2024
- Paper and cardboard made up 40.8% of packaging waste, plastic 19.9%, glass 18.1%, wood 16.2% and metal 4.8%
- Plastic packaging waste generated per capita was 35.9 kg in 2024, up 0.6 kg on 2023, of which 15.3 kg was recycled
- EU plastic packaging recycling rate rose to 42.4% in 2024 from 41.6% in 2023
- Member state plastic recycling rates ranged from 71% in Latvia to 22.5% in Denmark
UK compliance scheme operators, grouped in the Packaging Scheme Forum, have launched a campaign against calls from retailers and manufacturers to scrap Packaging Recovery Notes (PRNs) and fold them into the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) scheme ahead of the Budget. The British Retail Consortium and Food and Drink Federation argue PRNs add cost without improving recycling rates. The PSF counters that USD 127m (GBP 95m) in PRN revenue last year was committed to new UK recycling infrastructure, and that removing PRNs without an alternative risks destabilising funding for recycling.
Why this mattersThe outcome will reshape how UK producers fund recycling infrastructure and could alter compliance costs across the packaging supply chain.
- The Packaging Scheme Forum (PSF), representing 13 of the UK's 15 packaging compliance scheme operators, launched a campaign called Keep Packaging Recycling Working.
- The British Retail Consortium and Food and Drink Federation have proposed folding Packaging Recovery Notes (PRNs) into the UK's Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) scheme.
- PSF says USD 127m (GBP 95m) in PRN revenue last year was committed to new UK recycling infrastructure and capacity.
- PSF chair George Atkinson said removing PRNs without a viable alternative risks destabilising financial flows into waste management.
- The dispute follows Defra measures reducing 2026 packaging recycling obligations for plastic, steel and wood after a PRN shortage.
- The debate is taking place ahead of the UK Budget.
The European Council has agreed its negotiating position to exempt businesses placing under one tonne of packaging on the market per year from the requirement to appoint an authorised representative in every EU member state under Extended Producer Responsibility rules. The move follows complaints that registration fees of EUR 200 to EUR 800 per country are pushing some small producers out of the EU market. Trilogue negotiations with the European Parliament, which adopted a separate threshold based on company size the same week, can now begin.
Why this mattersA one-tonne threshold would spare the smallest producers per-country registration costs of EUR 200 to EUR 800, but must be reconciled with Parliament's broader size-based exemption.
- Council mandate exempts producers placing under one tonne of packaging per year from appointing authorised representatives in each member state
- Current EPR registration fees range from EUR 200 to EUR 800 per country
- Parliament's rival position, adopted the same week, exempts firms with fewer than 50 employees and turnover or balance sheet under EUR 10m, until 2035
- Council mandate includes a Commission review clause on the suspension's duration by 31 December 2030 ahead of a 2032 expiry
- A broader Extended Producer Responsibility solution is expected under the forthcoming Circular Economy Act
- Irish presidency ministers Helen McEntee, Darragh O'Brien and Thomas Byrne welcomed the agreement as reducing burdens on small businesses
Manchester flexible packaging converter Duo Packaging has launched 2DPE, a graphene-enhanced polyethylene film developed with the University of Manchester's Graphene Engineering Innovation Centre, which allows 45-60% recycled content and raises material strength by up to 35%. Retailer QVC has replaced standard bagging film with 2DPE at its Liverpool fulfilment centre, cutting bag weight by 5% and saving an estimated 50 tonnes of virgin plastic and about USD 28,270 (GBP 21,150) a year in UK extended producer responsibility (EPR) fees.
Why this mattersA graphene additive that lets converters raise recycled content without losing film strength offers a material route to cut both EPR fees and plastic use under tightening UK rules.
- Duo Packaging developed 2DPE with the University of Manchester's Graphene Engineering Innovation Centre (GEIC)
- 2DPE raises material strength by up to 35% while maintaining tensile and tear performance
- The film allows 45-60% recycled content
- QVC uses 2DPE in place of standard automatic bagging film at its Liverpool fulfilment centre
- QVC's switch cuts bag weight by 5%, saving an estimated 50 tonnes of virgin plastic a year
- QVC expects to save about USD 28,270 (GBP 21,150) a year in UK EPR fees
Amsterdam has commissioned a study into its legal options for banning single-use packaging, including coffee cups and fast-food containers, which the city says make up 30% of its litter. According to CircuLaw, a provider of legal information on circular transitions, such a ban could be imposed but only after less restrictive measures have failed, and works best alongside reliable reusable packaging and a return system. The city will consult business owners and residents and study Copenhagen and Lisbon, which has already banned single-use packaging.
Why this mattersA precedent from a major European capital for a hard single-use packaging ban would pressure foodservice packaging suppliers to accelerate reusable-format conversion ahead of binding EU rules.
- Amsterdam says single-use packaging, including coffee cups and fast-food containers, makes up 30% of city litter
- The city has commissioned a study into what it can legally do to tackle single-use packaging
- CircuLaw says a ban is possible only after less restrictive measures have proven not to work
- Lisbon has already implemented a single-use packaging ban; Amsterdam is also looking at Copenhagen
- The city plans to work with business owners and residents
- Lian Heinhuis, the Amsterdam executive responsible for waste and sanitation, announced the study
The UK Trade Remedies Authority issued a provisional affirmative determination on 23 October 2026 in a safeguard case brought by Alpek Polyester. It found that a 68% rise in PET resin imports between 2021 and 2025 caused serious injury to UK producers. It proposes a provisional tariff-rate quota of 192,963.17 tonnes from 1 December 2026 to 31 May 2027, allocated 77.6% to the EU, 5.4% to Mexico, 3.7% to Indonesia and 3.1% to Vietnam, with a 65% additional duty on volumes above quota.
Why this mattersPET bought outside the EU faces a 65% duty once small country quotas fill, steering UK bottle-grade resin sourcing towards EU suppliers.
- TRA published a provisional affirmative determination on 23 October 2026 in safeguard case SG0094, opened on 5 August 2026 at Alpek Polyester's request.
- Investigation covers virgin PET (viscosity 74 ml/g or above) and recycled PET under HS codes 3907.61 and 3907.69.
- UK PET imports rose 68% over 2021-2025 while domestic output fell continuously.
- Proposed tariff-rate quota of 192,963.17 tonnes runs from 1 December 2026 to 31 May 2027.
- Quota shares: EU 77.6%, Mexico 5.4%, Indonesia 3.7%, Vietnam 3.1%, other sources 10.2%.
- Imports above quota face a proposed additional safeguard duty of 65%; the provisional measure lasts at most 200 days.
The European Commission has opened a formal antitrust investigation into Swiss minerals group Omya over alleged abuse of a dominant position in the supply of calcium carbonate to paper manufacturers. The Commission suspects Omya required paper-industry customers to source all or most of their calcium carbonate from it, potentially shutting out rival suppliers in Europe. Omya did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
Why this mattersA finding against Omya could lower calcium carbonate procurement costs for European paper and board makers and open the field to rival mineral suppliers.
- European Commission announced the investigation on 23 October 2026.
- The probe targets Omya, a Swiss supplier of calcium carbonate.
- The Commission alleges Omya may have required paper-industry customers to buy all or most of their calcium carbonate needs from it.
- Calcium carbonate is used in papermaking to cut production costs and improve brightness, opacity, smoothness and printability.
- The Commission says Omya's practices may have limited rival suppliers' ability to compete for customers in Europe.
Danone has called for closer cooperation between drinks producers and retailers ahead of the UK deposit return scheme, due to launch in October 2027. In a company update dated 22 October 2026, the group said it has briefed around 100 retail contacts and trialled reverse vending technology at the Wimbledon qualifying competition. Danone cited a 2,000-person consumer survey showing almost two-thirds do not always recycle bottles and cans away from home.
Why this mattersRetailer and brand-owner readiness for reverse vending logistics will shape collection rates and equipment demand ahead of the UK scheme's 2027 start.
- UK deposit return scheme is due to start in October 2027
- Danone's update is dated 22 October 2026
- Danone has briefed around 100 retail contacts on store preparation
- Danone trialled reverse vending technology at the Wimbledon Championships qualifying competition
- A Danone survey of 2,000 UK consumers found almost two-thirds do not always recycle away from home
- Danone cites rising plastic bottle and can collection rates in Ireland since deposit returns began there
China Resources Chemical Materials, a Changzhou-based PET producer within China Resources Group, has received a US FDA no-objection letter confirming its chemically recycled post-consumer rPET can be used across all food-contact categories, the first such letter for a Chinese company. The resin, made via depolymerisation and repolymerisation of waste PET bottles rather than mechanical recycling, reached 30,000 tonnes of sales in 2025 at a 25 percent recycled-content grade. The company says the FDA letter eases export and plans to scale a 50 percent recycled-content grade by the first half of 2027.
Why this mattersChemically recycled rPET cleared for all food-contact uses gives Chinese PET producers an export route into the US and adds recycled-content supply for brand owners.
- FDA no-objection letter confirms the chemically recycled rPET can be used in all food-contact applications, the first for a Chinese PET producer.
- The company began developing the chemical recycling process in 2018, taking eight years to solve impurity removal issues.
- In 2025 the company sold over 30,000 tonnes of 25 percent recycled-content food-grade rPET, consuming about 8,600 tonnes of recovered PET bottle flakes.
- Cumulative rPET sales since launch exceed 75,000 tonnes.
- The company has PET capacity of 3.3 million tonnes, PETG capacity of 50,000 tonnes, PA66 capacity of 40,000 tonnes, and serves customers including Coca-Cola, Nongfu Spring and L'Oréal.
- A 50 percent recycled-content rPET grade is planned for industrial-scale production in the first half of 2027.
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.
The Council of the EU adopted on 21 October 2026 its negotiating position to suspend an extended producer responsibility requirement under the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation that obliges EU-based producers to appoint a representative in every Member State where they sell packaging or packaged goods. Producers could be exempted from appointing a representative in a given Member State if they place under one tonne of packaging there per year, with a safeguard clause for non-compliance. The Irish Presidency will now begin talks with the European Parliament, as part of the wider omnibus VIII simplification package.
Why this mattersA lighter EPR representative regime would cut compliance costs for small and cross-border packaging producers ahead of the planned Circular Economy Act overhaul.
- Council of the EU adopted its position on 21 October 2026 on suspending part of the PPWR's EPR representative requirement
- Exemption threshold: producers placing under one tonne of packaging per year in a given Member State
- European Commission must review the suspension's duration by 31 December 2030, ahead of its scheduled 2032 expiry
- Measure is part of the omnibus VIII package to simplify EU environmental rules
- Irish Presidency will start negotiations with the European Parliament on the file
- A broader fix for EPR schemes is expected in the forthcoming Circular Economy Act
Bel Group now sells its Babybel 2 Go snack cheese in a paper flowpack made from Koehler Paper's NexPlus Seal Pure, replacing the plastic outer wrap. The format is available in the US, Canada and parts of Europe and is designed to meet recyclability rules on both sides of the Atlantic, including the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation. Bel Group aims to wrap all Babybel snacks in paper by 2027 and move to fully recyclable packaging by 2030.
Why this mattersA high-volume branded snack switching from plastic to paper signals growing demand for mono-material, regulation-compliant flexible paper packaging among global food brands.
- Babybel 2 Go packs two Mini Babybels in a paper flowpack made from Koehler NexPlus Seal Pure
- Koehler's paper is 100% virgin fibre pulp, designed for recyclability under EU and US rules including PPWR
- Over two billion Babybel portions are consumed worldwide each year
- Bel Group announced plans last year to wrap all Babybel snacks in responsibly sourced paper by 2027
- The switch is expected to eliminate 60% of plastic per net and save 2,500 tonnes of CO2 emissions
- Bel Group's Evron factory in France, which produces one in two Babybel snacks worldwide, runs a functional paper packaging line
UPM plans to raise annual output at its Fray Bentos pulp mill in Uruguay from 1.3m to 1.5m tonnes through technology and efficiency improvements. At a meeting in Fray Bentos of the working group under the Uruguay-UPM investment contract, presidency secretary Alejandro Sánchez said no new ministerial environmental authorisation is needed, as UPM is not seeking to change its permits or increase environmental flows.
Why this mattersAdding 200,000 tonnes a year by debottlenecking, without a new environmental permit, gives UPM extra pulp volume in Uruguay faster and with less approval risk than new capacity.
- Fray Bentos mill output is planned to rise from 1,300,000 to 1,500,000 tonnes a year
- The increase is to come from technology and efficiency improvements
- The Uruguayan government says no new ministerial environmental authorisation is required
- Officials said the plan needs no increase in environmental flows and leaves existing permit parameters unchanged
- The plan was discussed at a meeting in Fray Bentos of the working group under the Uruguay-UPM investment contract, reported on 21 October 2026
- Presidency secretary Alejandro Sánchez led the government delegation; environment minister Edgardo Ortuño attended
- Under Dinacea technical review.
- Mill operating for two decades.
- Vice-chancellor Valeria Csukasi and Rio Negro departmental mayor Guillermo Levratto also attended the follow-up meeting
- Environmental specialists have called for stricter monitoring of equipment wear and possible subtle effects on the receiving river
South Africa's International Trade Administration Commission has raised the import duty on newsprint from zero to 5%, after Sappi sought protection for its Ngodwana Mill against cheap imports. The tariff, which applies to newsprint in rolls or sheets, will be reviewed after three years. Canada supplied 47.2% of South Africa's newsprint imports in 2024/25, ahead of Brazil at 19.8% and Norway at 18.3%, as Sappi's domestic market share fell from 60.8% in 2021/22 to 51.1% in 2024/25.
Why this mattersThe tariff shields South Africa's only newsprint mill as digital migration and global overcapacity squeeze margins, but raises input costs for printers and publishers.
- Itac raised the import duty on newsprint, in rolls or sheets, from duty-free to 5%, reviewable after three years
- Sappi's Ngodwana Mill is the only operational newsprint facility in South Africa and the Southern African Customs Union
- Ngodwana has annual capacity above 570,000 tonnes, of which newsprint is 110,000 tonnes, about 20%
- Import volumes rose 13% a year on average in 2021-25; in 2024/25 Canada supplied 47.2%, Brazil 19.8% and Norway 18.3%
- Domestic capacity utilisation fell from 68.5% in 2021/22 to 46.1% in 2024/25; market share fell from 60.8% to 51.1%
- Ngodwana contributed USD 0.6bn (ZAR 9.9bn) to Mpumalanga's GDP in 2025 and supports 1,500 direct and 5,000 indirect jobs
The European Parliament has adopted its position to suspend, until 2035, the requirement for small and micro-enterprises to appoint an authorised representative in every EU member state under the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation. The exemption would apply to EU-based firms with fewer than 50 employees and turnover or balance sheet under EUR 10m, and would not affect other Extended Producer Responsibility obligations such as waste prevention or fees. The position was adopted by 616 votes to 9 on packaging and waste batteries, and now goes forward to trialogue negotiations with the Council.
Why this mattersA multi-year suspension of the representative rule would cut compliance costs for small packaging producers selling across EU borders ahead of a planned Circular Economy Act.
- MEPs voted 616 to 9, with 39 abstentions, for the position on packaging waste and waste batteries.
- A related vote on single-use plastics, electronics, textiles and footwear passed 612 to 8, with 39 abstentions.
- The exemption would cover EU firms with fewer than 50 employees and turnover or balance sheet under EUR 10m.
- Suspension would run until 2035 or until a Circular Economy Act is adopted, whichever comes first.
- The German Federal Ministry for the Environment had proposed exempting traders putting under 10 tonnes of packaging into circulation per year.
- The European Commission is expected to propose a comprehensive Circular Economy Act later in 2026.
The European Commission launched a public consultation on 21 October 2026 on the role of bio-based plastics in packaging policy, running until 13 January 2027. Conducted under Article 8 of the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation and the EU Bioeconomy Strategic Framework, it will inform a possible assessment of demand measures, targets and sustainability requirements for bio-based feedstock, which could lead to a legislative proposal.
Why this mattersA future EU framework or targets for bio-based feedstock would reshape sourcing and investment decisions across plastic packaging producers and converters.
- Consultation launched 21 October 2026, open until 13 January 2027
- Conducted under Article 8 of the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation and the EU Bioeconomy Strategic Framework
- Open to manufacturers, converters, raw-material suppliers, bio-based plastics producers, recyclers, brand owners and retailers
- Aims to assess market demand measures, targets and possible sustainability requirements for bio-based feedstock
- Feedback may lead to a legislative proposal establishing a framework for bio-based feedstock in plastic packaging
- UK converter Duo Packaging says the UK Plastic Packaging Tax treats bio-based plastics the same as fossil-based plastics, disadvantaging low-carbon alternatives.
Pakistan's National Tariff Commission issued an affirmative preliminary determination on 21 October 2026 in its anti-dumping investigation into Chinese Alu Alu Foil, imposing a provisional duty of 9.03% effective immediately for four months. The foil, used for pharmaceutical cold-forming and tropical packaging, is classified under Pakistani tariff codes 7607.1990 and 7607.2000. A final ruling is expected within 180 days of the preliminary decision.
Why this mattersA duty on Chinese Alu Alu foil raises costs for pharmaceutical packaging converters sourcing from China and could redirect import flows to other suppliers.
- NTC's affirmative preliminary determination was issued on 21 October 2026.
- The provisional anti-dumping duty is 9.03%, effective immediately for four months.
- The investigation covers Cold Forming Foil and Tropical Foil under tariff codes 7607.1990 and 7607.2000.
- The case was launched on 23 July 2026, examining dumping from April 2025 to March 2026 and injury data from April 2023 to March 2026.
- A final ruling is expected within 180 days of the preliminary announcement.
Aliplast, the plastics recycling arm of Italian utility group Hera, has opened its R3GID recycling plant in Modena, Italy, with capacity for up to 30,000 tonnes a year of recycled polymers from rigid plastic waste. The EUR 48.8m (USD 54.8m) investment includes EUR 7.7m (USD 8.7m) from Italy's national recovery plan and uses Nextchem's NX Replast technology, targeting recycled-content demand under the EU PPWR and End of Life Vehicles rules.
Why this mattersThe plant adds scarce European rigid-plastics recycling capacity against a 2040 shortfall Hera puts at 5.7m tonnes, cutting Italian manufacturers' reliance on imported recycled polymer.
- Capacity of up to 30,000 tonnes of recycled rigid polymers a year
- Total investment of EUR 48.8m (USD 54.8m), including EUR 7.7m (USD 8.7m) from Italy's National Recovery and Resilience Plan
- Output has certified purity above 99%, with properties said to be comparable to virgin plastics
- The technology was developed with Nextchem using its NX Replast upcycling process
- The plant uses treated water and power from Hera's adjacent Modena wastewater and waste-to-energy facilities
- Hera says the plant avoids about 30,000 tonnes of CO2-equivalent emissions compared with virgin plastic production
Ambilital, which manages municipal waste for the AMAGRA intermunicipal system in southern Portugal, plans to invest about EUR 40m (USD 45m) to meet packaging recycling targets due by 2030. The figure was disclosed on 21 October during a visit by producer-responsibility body Sociedade Ponto Verde, which also funds the system through its compensation payments. Ambilital reported a 15% year-on-year rise in recycled volumes in the first nine months of 2026, after an 11% increase in 2025, but says collection of glass, plastic, steel and aluminium must still improve.
Why this mattersA regional waste manager's capital commitment shows the scale of investment municipal recycling systems need to meet EU-driven packaging targets by 2030.
- Ambilital's strategic plan includes about EUR 40m (USD 45m) of investment to meet recycling targets
- Board adviser José Pinto Rodrigues disclosed the figure on 21 October 2026 during a Sociedade Ponto Verde visit
- Ambilital manages waste for the AMAGRA intermunicipal system covering seven municipalities in the Alentejo
- Recycled volumes rose 15% year on year in the first nine months of 2026, after an 11% rise in 2025
- Targets must be met by 2030, with contributions from member municipalities and private shareholder SUMA
- Sociedade Ponto Verde identifies glass as a material with growth potential for collection
Finland's two largest grocery groups, S-ryhmä and K-ryhmä, jointly trialled a reusable polypropylene take-away food container with a EUR 3 deposit across four Espoo stores for three months in spring 2026. Results published on 21 October 2026 showed boxes returned after seven days on average, with 91 percent of washed boxes passing inspection for reuse; the groups have not announced a national rollout.
Why this mattersA cross-retailer reuse pilot tied to incoming EU packaging waste rules shows competitors can share pooling infrastructure, a model foodservice packaging makers may need to serve.
- Trial ran for three months in spring 2026 across four grocery stores in Espoo, Finland.
- Customers paid a EUR 3 deposit for a reusable biobased polypropylene box instead of a single-use container.
- Results published 21 October 2026 showed boxes returned to the system after seven days on average.
- 91 percent of boxes that passed washing were approved for a further use cycle.
- 16 organisations took part, including Orthex, Lassila & Tikanoja, Pakkauskierrätys RINKI, Compass Group and Borealis Polymers.
- The pilot is part of the Business Finland-funded Reusify project led by VTT and the University of Vaasa, linked to the EU packaging and packaging waste regulation.
Pakistan's National Tariff Commission issued a preliminary determination on 21 October 2026 imposing a provisional anti-dumping duty of 9.03% on cold-forming and tropical alu-alu foil from China. The duty applies immediately for four months under tariff codes 7607.1990 and 7607.2000. A final ruling is expected within 180 days of the preliminary announcement.
Why this mattersThe provisional duty raises the cost of Chinese cold-forming and tropical foil for Pakistani blister packers for at least four months, pending a final ruling.
- Pakistan's National Tariff Commission issued an affirmative preliminary anti-dumping determination on 21 October 2026.
- The provisional duty is 9.03% on Alu Alu Foil (Cold Forming Foil and Tropical Foil) from China.
- The duty covers tariff codes 7607.1990 and 7607.2000 and takes effect immediately for four months.
- The investigation, launched 23 July 2026, examined dumping from April 2025 to March 2026 and injury data from April 2023 to March 2026.
- A final ruling is expected within 180 days of the preliminary announcement.
Silgan Dispensing Systems, Silgan's contract manufacturer of consumer health care products, did not properly investigate or report high mould and yeast counts in drug products made at its Spokane, Washington facility, The Capitol Forum reported on 20 October 2026. According to the report, this continued after an unnamed customer recalled a Silgan-made product over potential fungal contamination.
Why this mattersIf confirmed, the reported lapses at a contract maker of drug products would raise recall risk for its customers and could draw regulatory attention to Silgan's dispensing business.
- The Capitol Forum reported the findings on 20 October 2026.
- Silgan Dispensing Systems makes consumer health care products under contract at a facility in Spokane, Washington.
- High mould and yeast counts in drug products from the plant were not properly investigated or reported, according to the report.
- An unnamed customer recalled a product made by Silgan over potential fungal contamination.
China's State Administration for Market Regulation has approved GB/T 24322-2026, a revised national standard for sulphate bamboo pulp that replaces the 2009 bleached-only version. The update adds a new category and test methods for unbleached (natural) sulphate bamboo pulp, tightens safety limits on fluorescent brighteners and heavy metals, and takes effect on 1 April 2027.
Why this mattersBamboo pulp is a key input for tissue and moulded-pulp fibre packaging, so tighter purity and safety limits could affect sourcing and cost for producers using the material.
- Standard GB/T 24322-2026 replaces GB/T 24322-2009, which covered only bleached sulphate bamboo pulp.
- The revision adds a separate category and technical requirements for unbleached sulphate bamboo pulp.
- New safety indicators cover migratable fluorescent substances and heavy metals.
- Tear index requirements for bleached pulp are tightened and the D65 brightness indicator adjusted.
- Dust measurement threshold area is changed to 0.15mm2 with updated requirements for the 0.15-0.99mm2 range.
- The standard enters into force on 1 April 2027.
Avery Dennison has received what it says are the first RecyClass Technology Approvals for pressure-sensitive labels on PET trays, covering its AD CleanFlake Thermal PP White (S7000ER) and the newly introduced Chilled Thermal PP White (C7010ER). RecyClass found both compatible with clear and coloured transparent PET thermoform recycling streams in existing European processes, as the industry prepares for the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation.
Why this mattersRecyclability certification lets brand owners shift PET tray labelling to film while meeting PPWR design-for-recycling rules and potentially cutting EPR fees.
- RecyClass approved AD CleanFlake Thermal PP White (S7000ER) and Chilled Thermal PP White (C7010ER) for PET trays; Avery Dennison calls it a market first
- RecyClass confirmed compatibility with clear and coloured transparent PET thermoform recycling streams in existing European processes
- RecyClass guidelines and EN 18120-5 require labels on PET thermoforms to detach in caustic hot washing without significant adhesive residue
- The PP direct thermal facestock lets users replace paper labels on PET trays while keeping existing direct thermal printers
- Avery Dennison says approved labels may help packs reach RecyClass class A and lower EPR eco-modulation fees
- The AD CleanFlake portfolio was developed 13 years ago for PET bottle recycling
