The German Packaging Act, locally known as Verpackg, is a key regulation that affects companies worldwide selling products to German consumers.
It has strict regulations on packaging waste, recycling and corporate liability, and you may be affected if your business is exported to Germany.
Even if you are in another country, if you ship your product to Germany, you still need to comply with that law.
Understanding how the system works can help avoid penalties and ensure that your packaging strategy is aligned with European sustainability goals.
Launched in 2019, Verpackg replaced an older packaging method with a more ambitious framework to reduce waste and promote recycling.
It reflects Germany’s broad commitment to environmental protection and the EU’s circular economy agenda.
This law applies to any business that places packaged goods on the German market, whether directly or through an online platform. These include manufacturers, brand owners, e-commerce sellers, importers, and even foreign businesses that ship items to German customers.
If your product is accessed to German customers in any form (from product packaging to shipping boxes), then your company must comply with Verpackg rules.
Under the German Packaging Act, there are three main obligations: registration, system participation and reporting.
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Register with sober:
Before selling in Germany, you must register in the national database running the Central Agency Packaging Register (ZSVR).
This registration is free and publicly accessible, designed to increase transparency and prevent companies from avoiding compliance.
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Join the dual system:
Once registered, your business must be joined in a “dual system” that can handle the collection and recycling of packaging waste throughout Germany. Well-known systems include DerGrüne Punkt and Zenerero.
These organizations ensure that your packaging is properly processed and recycled once it reaches German consumers. You will pay for the payment based on the type and weight of the packaging.
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Report packaging data:
Every year, you have to submit a report announcing how many packaging you have placed on the German market and in what category of materials (e.g., plastic, paper, glass). Larger companies must provide third-party certification reports.
This process ensures that the German government can track packaging waste and enforce recycling targets. Failure to report or register can result in fines up to €200,000 and even prohibit sales on major online platforms.
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 must be recycled. These goals are one of Europe’s highest goals.
The new update in 2025 makes the law more demanding. Single-use plastic beverage bottles must now include at least 25% of recycled content, and by 2030, that number will rise to 30%.
Germany is also preparing for the main regulations within its scope: the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), which is expected to take full effect in 2026.
The law will unify packaging rules for all EU member states, requiring packaging to be recycled by design and restricting excessive materials.
Another innovation being considered is recycling incentive funds. In the future, businesses using sustainable recyclable packaging may receive financial support, while those using difficult-to-trace materials can pay additional fees.
If your company ships items to Germany without registering or joining a dual system, the consequences can be serious.
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Sales ban: Online markets, etc., need to stop unqualified sellers in Germany.
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Public exposure: All registered companies are listed in public sober registration, which means that customers and competitors can see who follows the rules and who does not.
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Fines and legal proceedings: German authorities can impose a maximum fine of 200,000 euros for each violation.
Even if you operate outside the EU, selling to Germany without compliance can damage your reputation and limit market access.
If you are new to the German market or just started exploring sales in Europe, you have to plan. Here are the key steps to take:
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Check your responsibility: If your company sells or ships products to Germany in any form of packaging, you may need to register.
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Choose a dual system partner: Choose a licensed recycling provider and make cost estimates based on your packaging volume and materials.
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Keep a good record: Track the type and quantity of packaging used. This will make annual reports easier and ensure accuracy.
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View packaging design: Switching to recyclable or reduced packaging can reduce costs and prepare for upcoming EU rules.
Verpackg is more than just local law. This is a sign that international packaging policy is moving forward: to increase transparency, producer responsibility and sustainability.
For global brands, especially in e-commerce and manufacturing, being consistent with these standards not only ensures legal compliance but also builds trust with environmentally friendly consumers.
By taking Verpackg seriously, your business can smooth out the EU’s largest economy, avoid expensive fines, and contribute to more sustainable supply chains.
In a highly competitive global market, meeting German high environmental standards can give your brand strengths rather than being consistent with reputation and future preparations.
The “German Packaging Act for Global Sellers” was originally created and published by Global Data Owner Brand Packaging Gateway.
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