The German Packaging Act, known locally as VerpackG, is a key regulation that affects companies worldwide selling products to German consumers.
It sets strict rules on packaging waste, recycling, and corporate responsibility—meaning if your business exports to Germany, you’re likely affected.
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Even if you’re based in another country, you may still need to comply with this law if you ship products to Germany.
Understanding how the system works can help avoid penalties and ensure your packaging strategy aligns with European sustainability goals.
What is the VerpackG and why does it matter?
Introduced in 2019, the VerpackG replaced an older packaging law with a more ambitious framework to reduce waste and promote recycling.
It reflects Germany’s broader commitment to environmental protection and the European Union’s circular economy agenda.
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By GlobalDataThe law applies to any business placing packaged goods on the German market—whether directly or through online platforms. That includes manufacturers, brand owners, e-commerce sellers, importers, and even foreign businesses that ship items to customers in Germany.
If your product reaches German customers in any kind of packaging—from product wrappers to shipping boxes—your company must comply with VerpackG rules.
Key compliance steps for foreign companies
There are three main obligations under the German Packaging Act: registration, system participation, and reporting.
- Register with LUCID:
Before selling in Germany, you must register with the LUCID Packaging Register, a national database run by the Central Agency Packaging Register (ZSVR).
This registration is free and publicly accessible, designed to promote transparency and prevent companies from avoiding compliance.
- Join a dual system:
Once registered, your business must join a “dual system”—a licensed organisation that handles collection and recycling of packaging waste across Germany. Well-known systems include Der Grüne Punkt and Interzero.
These organisations ensure your packaging is properly disposed of and recycled once it reaches German consumers. You’ll pay fees based on the type and weight of your packaging.
- Report packaging data:
Each year, you must submit a report declaring how much packaging you placed on the German market and in what material categories (e.g., plastic, paper, glass). Larger businesses must provide third-party certified reports.
This process ensures the German government can track packaging waste and enforce recycling targets. Failing to report or register can result in fines of up to €200,000, and even a ban from selling on major online platforms.
Current rules and future developments
The German Packaging Act imposes strict recycling targets. For example, by law, 90% of paper and glass packaging must be recycled, and at least 63% of plastic packaging. These targets are among the highest in Europe.
New updates from 2025 make the law even more demanding. Single-use plastic beverage bottles must now include at least 25% recycled content, with that figure rising to 30% by 2030.
Germany is also preparing for a major EU-wide regulation: the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), expected to take full effect in 2026.
This law will unify packaging rules across all EU member states, requiring packaging to be recyclable by design and limiting excessive materials.
Another innovation under consideration is a recycling incentive fund. In future, businesses that use sustainable, recyclable packaging may receive financial support—while those that use hard-to-recycle materials could pay extra fees.
Risks of non-compliance for global sellers
If your company ships goods to Germany without registering or joining a dual system, the consequences can be serious.
- Sales bans: Online marketplaces like Amazon and eBay are required to block non-compliant sellers in Germany.
- Public exposure: All registered companies are listed in the public LUCID register, which means customers and competitors can see who follows the rules—and who doesn’t.
- Fines and legal action: German authorities can impose fines of up to €200,000 for each violation.
Even if you operate outside the EU, selling into Germany without compliance can damage your reputation and restrict market access.
How to prepare your business
If you’re new to the German market—or just beginning to explore sales in Europe—it’s important to plan ahead. Here are the key steps to take:
- Check your responsibilities: If your company sells or ships products to Germany in any kind of packaging, you’ll likely need to register.
- Choose a dual system partner: Select a licensed recycling provider and get a cost estimate based on your packaging volume and materials.
- Keep good records: Track the types and quantities of packaging used. This will make annual reporting easier and ensure accuracy.
- Review your packaging design: Switching to recyclable or reduced packaging can lower costs and prepare your business for upcoming EU rules.
Why international brands should care about VerpackG
The VerpackG is more than a local law. It’s a sign of where international packaging policy is heading: toward greater transparency, producer responsibility, and sustainability.
For global brands, especially in e-commerce and manufacturing, aligning with these standards not only ensures legal compliance but also builds trust with environmentally conscious consumers.
By taking VerpackG seriously, your business can gain smoother access to the EU’s largest economy, avoid costly penalties, and contribute to a more sustainable supply chain.
In a competitive global market, meeting Germany’s high environmental standards can give your brand an edge—not just in compliance, but in reputation and future readiness.
