Single-Use Plastics (SUP) in Germany
Starting from January 1, 2025, sellers of single-use plastic (SUP) products in Germany must comply with the requirements outlined in the Single-Use Plastics Fund Act (EWKFondsG). These include registration, reporting quantities, and paying eco-contribution fees. Below is an overview of relevant information:
What Are Single-Use Plastic (SUP) Products?
SUP products are defined as:
• Made entirely or partially of plastic, and
• Designed for single use (not intended for reuse or refilling).
Examples of Products Classified as SUP
1. Food Containers:
• Boxes for ready-to-eat food that can be consumed immediately (e.g., takeaway containers).
• Excluded: beverage containers, bags, foils, and plates.
2. Bags and Foil Packaging:
• Flexible packaging (e.g., wrappers for food consumed directly without further preparation).
3. Beverage Containers up to 3 Liters:
• Plastic beverage bottles, closures, and lids.
• Excluded: containers made of glass or metal with plastic components.
4. Plastic Beverage Cups:
• Including lids and closures.
5. Lightweight Plastic Carrier Bags:
• Bags with wall thickness <50 micrometers (e.g., checkout plastic bags).
6. Wet Wipes:
• Wipes for personal or household care.
7. Balloons:
• Excluding those for industrial or commercial use.
8. Tobacco Products with Filters:
• Tobacco filters or standalone filters intended for use with tobacco.
Who Is Considered a Producer of SUP?
A producer of SUP products is a person or company that:
• Is based in Germany and manufactures, fills, sells, or imports SUP products for the first time into the German market.
• Is based outside Germany but sells SUP products directly to German consumers (e.g., via online sales).
Obligations for Producers of SUP Products
1. Registration on the DIVID Platform:
• Mandatory registration on the DIVID (Single-Use Plastics Fund platform).
• Provide product types and brand names.
• Foreign producers must appoint an authorized representative in Germany.
2. Provide Registration Number:
• After obtaining the registration number, upload it to Amazon’s Compliance Portal (Account Health > Policy Compliance).
3. Annual Quantity Reporting:
• By May 15 each year (starting in 2025), report the types and quantities of SUP products sold in Germany during the previous year.
4. Pay Eco-Contribution Fees (Levy):
• Fees cover the cost of cleaning up single-use plastic waste in public spaces.
• You will receive a levy notice via email and on the DIVID platform.
Consequences of Non-Compliance
• On Amazon: As of January 1, 2025, non-compliant listings will be deactivated.
• Legal Penalties: Fines and sales bans under German law.
How to Register and Comply?
1. DIVID Platform:
• Create an account (available from April 1, 2024, for foreign companies).
• Register brands and product types (available from August 1, 2024, for foreign companies).
2. Amazon Compliance Portal:
• Upload registration numbers for individual brands and SUP product types.
3. Reporting and Payment:
• Submit electronically via the DIVID platform.
For further assistance, you can contact an EPR service provider or Amazon support.