The European Union’s (EU) proposed packaging regulations to reduce packaging waste for a wide range of consumer products have ignited concerns among American industry groups, setting the stage for potential trade tensions between the United States and the EU.
According to a recent article from Politico, by actively opposing these regulations, these American industry groups have gained the attention of U.S. government agencies. Their primary concern is that the proposed legislation would impose stringent recycled content and reuse requirements on domestic and imported products, potentially reducing exports to Europe.
"It could be a huge trade issue, and other countries trying to sell into the EU will be concerned as well,” said Jennifer Turner, Director of the China Environment Forum at the Wilson Center.
The American Chamber of Commerce to the EU has expressed its reservations, stating that the proposed restrictions could have "negative impacts on international trade in products." The U.S. Dairy Export Council is requesting exemptions from the requirements, arguing that sending used packaging back to U.S. producers for refilling would be logistically challenging and counterproductive as it would be carbon intensive. Additionally, the Distilled Spirits Council of the U.S. is concerned that specific provisions could hinder branding efforts and create an opportunity for counterfeiters.
To address these concerns, U.S. Agriculture and Commerce Department officials have traveled to Brussels to engage in discussions. Earlier this year, the U.S. mission to the EU co-hosted the "US-EU Dialogue on Sustainable Packaging" in the European Parliament, emphasizing the importance of sustainable packaging practices.
