What is Italy Packaging EPR?

Views :

Update time : 2026-04-22

As sustainable development and waste reduction initiatives are promoted across Europe, Italy has implemented strict packaging regulations to meet environmental and circular economy objectives. These regulations affect anyone selling packaged goods on the Italian market, making compliance essential for smooth business operations.

Italy’s Packaging EPR is primarily governed by the Environmental Code, specifically Legislative Decree No. 152/2006, which establishes a comprehensive waste management framework including packaging policies. A key amendment, Legislative Decree No. 116/2020, further strengthens Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) requirements and mandates mandatory environmental labelling for all packaging placed on the Italian market.

At the core of these regulations is the Italian National Packaging Consortium (CONAI), which oversees EPR compliance, packaging waste management, and sustainability efforts. Businesses must understand their obligations under the CONAI framework, including registration, reporting, and financial contributions based on the type and volume of packaging placed on the market.

This guide details who is affected, key compliance requirements, and penalties for non‑compliance. Its goal is to help businesses navigate Italy’s evolving packaging regulations.

Who Is Affected by Italy Packaging EPR?

Italy’s packaging regulations apply to anyone placing packaged goods on the Italian market, including:

• Manufacturers: Companies producing packaged goods within Italy

• Importers: Businesses importing packaged products into the Italian market

• Distributors and retailers: Including e‑commerce platforms selling products to Italian consumers

The rules apply to both commercial and industrial packaging, covering a wide range of materials such as plastic, paper/cardboard, glass, metal, wood, textiles, and composite materials.

Key Requirements for Businesses

To comply with Italy Packaging EPR obligations, businesses must complete the following steps:

1. Register with CONAI

Before placing packaged products on the Italian market, businesses must register with CONAI, the national packaging consortium responsible for managing packaging waste and enforcing EPR duties.

2. Appoint an Authorised Representative

Importers without a legal entity in Italy must designate a third‑party representative within Italy to fulfil their compliance obligations under EPR legislation.

3. Participate in Material Recovery

Businesses are required to pay fees to CONAI, providing financial contributions for the collection, sorting, and recycling of packaging waste. Fees are determined by the type and quantity of packaging materials placed on the market.

Italy operates a modulated fee system to encourage eco‑friendly packaging design. Packaging that is easily recyclable or contains recycled materials may qualify for lower fees, while less sustainable packaging is subject to higher rates.

4. Report Packaging Data

Businesses must regularly report to CONAI the quantity and type of packaging they place on the Italian market. Accurate reporting ensures correct fee application and effective monitoring of recycling targets. Where precise data is unavailable, businesses may use estimates based on product specifications, supplier information, or industry benchmarks.

Reporting frequency (monthly, quarterly, or annually) depends on the total environmental contribution (EPR fees, based on packaging type and volume) declared for each material in the previous year. All regular declarations must be submitted by the 20th day of the month following the reporting period.

For example:

• A quarterly report covering January–March must be submitted by 20 April.

• A monthly report for January must be submitted by 20 February.

Businesses must adhere to these reporting schedules to comply with Italian packaging regulations and avoid potential penalties.

Risks of Non‑Compliance

Failure to comply with Italian packaging regulations may result in severe penalties, including:

• Fines: Ranging from €5,200 to €40,000, depending on the severity and nature of the violation

• Sales bans: Prohibition from selling products on the Italian market until compliance is achieved

• Legal action: Lawsuits initiated by competitors or consumer protection authorities

Additionally, failure to register with CONAI or fulfil Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) obligations may lead to increased scrutiny and enforcement actions by Italian authorities.

Future Outlook

The Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) entered into force on 11 February 2025, with its provisions taking effect on 12 August 2026, which will directly impact Italy’s packaging rules. As an EU regulation, it will automatically override conflicting national laws, requiring Italy to align with unified EU standards.

Key changes include:

• Mandatory recyclability for all packaging by 2030

• New reuse and refill targets

• Standardised labelling requirements

Businesses will need to redesign packaging, update labelling, and meet stricter sustainability benchmarks to remain compliant. Companies involved in packaging production, import, or distribution should proactively monitor these developments and prepare for significant regulatory adjustments to maintain compliance and market access.