On June 24, 2026, the Swiss Federal Council adopted the new Packaging Ordinance (VerpV); the Ordinance will enter into force at the beginning of 2027, with staggered implementation schedules for 2030, 2031, 2032, etc., replacing the Beverage Packaging Ordinance that has been in effect for 26 years.
I. Scope of Application and Basic Concepts
Applicable Entities: Manufacturers, importers, and distributors placing packaged products on the market within Switzerland
Key Definitions:
- Reusable packaging (Mehrwegverpackungen): Packaging designed for multiple cycles of use
- Single-use packaging (Einwegverpackungen): Packaging intended for one-time use only
- Beverage packaging: Containers for liquid foodstuffs (excluding cups and bags)
- Beverage cartons (Getränkekartons): Composite packaging consisting primarily of cardboard, with small amounts of plastic and possibly aluminum
- Plastic packaging: All packaging made of plastic polymers (excluding PET beverage packaging)
II. Core Obligations
1. General Requirements for Packaging (Effective 2030)
Packaging must (to the extent technically feasible and economically reasonable):
- Minimization: Volume and weight shall be reduced to the minimum necessary to ensure safety and hygiene
- Recyclability: Suitable for collection, treatment, and recycling without causing significant technical difficulties or additional costs
- High recycled content: Incorporate the highest possible proportion of recycled materials
- Prohibition of hazardous substances: Must not contain substances of very high concern as defined in Article 70(1) of the Chemicals Ordinance
2. Take-back Obligations for Beverage Cartons and Single-Use Plastic Packaging (Effective 2031)
Obligated Parties:
- Manufacturers/distributors with annual sales exceeding CHF 1 million and placing more than 500 kg of packaging materials on the market
- Exemptions: Packaging for the transport of dangerous goods or for medical purposes
Obligations:
- Take back such packaging at or in the immediate vicinity of the actual point of delivery; if a fee is charged, it may only cover disposal costs and shall not be profit-making
- Clearly mark take-back information in a prominent position
- If handled through an industry association, the association shall assume the obligations
Recycling Rate Targets:
- Beverage cartons: ≥70%
- Single-use plastic packaging: ≥55%
Consequences of Non-Compliance (Effective 2032): The Confederation may mandate:
- Bear recycling costs independently, or
- Implement a minimum deposit system (mandatory take-back)
3. Advance Disposal Fee for Glass Packaging (Effective 2028)
Persons Liable for Payment: Manufacturers/importers placing or importing glass packaging (empty or filled) on the market
Exemptions:
- Packaging with a capacity of less than 0.02 liters
- Fewer than 1,000 packaging units per half-year
- Packaging not used for food or cosmetic purposes
Fee Standard: 1–10 centimes (Rappen) per packaging unit
