France will introduce Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for commercial and industrial (“professional”) packaging starting 1 January 2026.

France will introduce Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for commercial and industrial (“professional”) packaging starting 1 January 2026. This expansion—formalized in Decree 2025-1081 and rooted in the Anti-Waste and Circular Economy Law (Loi AGEC)—means companies that place packaging on the French market will become financially and administratively responsible for its collection, recycling, and end-of-life management. Industry groups are concerned. The French corrugated board association Carton Ondulé de France warns of significant economic and social impacts if the rule moves forward without clearer definitions—particularly the definition of “producer.” They argue that the obligation may be unfairly or inconsistently applied while EU-level rules are still evolving, and they have asked the government to delay implementation. Affect to French manufacturers 1. Higher Packaging Costs Energy manufacturers will pay new EPR fees for industrial crates, barrels, cable reels, and protective packaging. 2. Pressure to Redesign Packaging Companies will need more recyclable, lighter, or reusable packaging to avoid high fees. 3. Supplier Price Increases Packaging suppliers will raise their prices to cover their own EPR obligations. 4. More Administrative Work Manufacturers must track packaging volumes, report data, and ensure compliance. 5. Planning Uncertainty The unclear definition of “producer” adds risk to budgeting and supply-chain planning for 2025–2026. 6. Competitive Shifts Companies already using sustainable packaging will gain cost advantages over those using heavy or complex industrial packaging.