European Union – Digital Waste Shipments System
The European Commission plans to make digital documentation mandatory for cross-border waste shipments within the EU starting 21 May. Companies must use the new Digital Waste Shipments System (Diwass) instead of traditional paper-based procedures. However, industry groups say the system is not fully operational. Eight European recycling and materials associations have requested a one-year delay. The Confederation of European Paper Industries (CEPI) also expressed concern, stating that companies are ready to comply, but the EU platform itself is not prepared. Industry leaders compare the situation to previous regulatory rollouts where businesses had to adapt quickly while digital systems were incomplete. The uncertainty creates operational risks for waste, paper, plastics, glass, and metals exporters within the EU. Effect on EU Manufacturers: • Administrative burden increases. • Risk of shipment delays rises. • Export planning becomes uncertain. • Compliance costs grow. • Pressure on EU to improve digital systems.