The German Potato Trade Association (DKHV) has stepped up efforts to help the potato sector prepare for the European Union’s new Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), which will become directly applicable across all EU member states from August 12, 2026.

The association recently hosted a hybrid seminar in Düsseldorf focused on the practical implications of Regulation (EU) 2025/40, attracting around 50 participants both in person and online. The event highlighted the growing concern among potato industry stakeholders about the far-reaching impact of the new legislation, which introduces extensive requirements covering packaging design, documentation, compliance responsibilities and supply chain accountability.

The PPWR forms part of the EU’s broader strategy to reduce packaging waste, strengthen the circular economy and harmonize packaging requirements across the bloc. Unlike previous directives, the regulation applies directly in all member states and covers all packaging and packaging waste regardless of material type or intended use.

Opening the seminar, Manuela Hierl, Deputy Chair of DKHV’s Trade, Quality and Ecology Committee, emphasized the need for early preparation across the industry.

“The PPWR affects not only packaging, but also numerous processes throughout the entire supply chain. For companies in the potato sector, it is therefore essential to familiarize themselves with the new requirements at an early stage. As an association, our goal is to provide guidance, consolidate knowledge, and promote exchange within the industry,” she said.

A key focus of the seminar was the clarification of new responsibilities for economic operators. Experts from Deloitte, Dr. Sophie Luise Bings and Tobias Webert, outlined the regulatory framework and explained how the PPWR redefines important legal concepts such as “manufacturer” and “producer.” These classifications will determine specific obligations related to conformity assessments, technical documentation and market responsibilities.

As the regulation places greater emphasis on traceability and compliance documentation, digital record-keeping is expected to become increasingly important. Adrian Längle of Simvia presented digital solutions designed to support companies in managing product-specific documentation, declarations of conformity and evidence requirements.

The packaging supply chain perspective was provided by Enya Ebel of Royal LC Packaging, who addressed issues ranging from material availability to data management and product-specific compliance obligations. Discussions during the event indicated that while many companies have already begun implementation planning, significant uncertainty remains regarding several practical aspects of compliance.

According to DKHV, the regulation is expected to reshape the packaging landscape over the coming years, making collaboration between growers, traders, packers, packaging suppliers and regulators increasingly important.

“The PPWR will have a lasting impact on the packaging industry in the years ahead. For the potato sector, it is crucial to understand the requirements at an early stage and to develop practical solutions together,” the association concluded.

DKHV said further guidance will likely be needed as additional implementing measures, delegated acts and official interpretations emerge. As a result, the association expects the PPWR to remain a central topic for the potato industry as companies prepare for the August 2026 implementation deadline.