What you should know about extended producer responsibility (EPR) in Hungary
Since 1 July 2023, new regulations regarding extended producer responsibility (EPR) have been in force and therefore also new obligations for retailers in Hungary. Hungary is implementing the EU directives and rethinking its responsibilities for waste.
In the following article, we will show you what you need to consider now.
Current EPR requirements in Hungary
On 1 July 2023, Hungary tightened the regulations regarding extended producer responsibility in the country. Since then, online retailers in particular have been held more accountable. If you sell goods and packaging to Hungary, they must be licensed with an EPR system from the first kilogramme. This now also applies to retailers who do not have a Hungarian VAT number. Foreign companies that are obliged to obtain an EPR licence must appoint a Hungarian representative for this purpose.
In addition to the licensing of packaging, there are further obligations for companies that fill packaging with goods for the first time or have it filled and sell it to private individuals. Additional registration with the MOHU licence company and the Hungarian environmental authority is required. In addition to packaging, some product categories are also subject to the new EPR levies.
EPR around packaging
Until now, packaging did not have to be licensed in Hungary. However, companies above a certain annual turnover with a VAT number pay a product fee through the environmental tax. Since July 2023, however, all distributors of packaging, with or without a VAT number, are now obliged to contribute to the recycling costs. The new EPR requirements replace the previously applicable “product fee for environmental protection”. Since April 2023, the companies concerned have had to register on the MOHU Partner Portal and with the environmental authority.
The registration and payment obligation always applies to the first Hungarian distributors and also applies if an online shop based outside Hungary sells goods to end consumers in Hungary.
Unlike in France or Italy, however, there is no labelling obligation for packaging.
EPR requirements for other product categories
In addition to packaging, the new EPR regulations also apply to textiles, wooden furniture, batteries and WEEE products (electrical and electronic equipment).
If you sell these products in or to Hungary, registration with the above-mentioned bodies and an EPR levy are also mandatory. Retailers are also responsible for the effective disposal of these products.
Summary: EPR for more environmental protection in Hungary
The extension of the EPR obligations for manufacturers and retailers in Hungary presents them with new challenges in terms of their registrations, but also due to the costs associated with the EPR levy.
At the same time, however, these adjustments will also trigger the implementation of more sustainable practices, which in turn will benefit the environment. In addition, the circular economy is strengthened and environmental protection is promoted.
You need support in implementing your obligations in Hungary? We are happy to help!
LIZENZERO.EU makes packaging compliance in Europe very easy.
Do you ship your products to different countries in the EU? Many different legal requirements and obligations can make the whole thing quite complicated – but don’t worry, we’ll do it for you. How do we do it? With our licensing service, we take over all obligations for you by power of attorney. Sounds good? We’ll be happy to advise you.
For shipping to Germany, you can easily fulfill your packaging obligations yourself via Lizenzero.de.
BPA ban in the EU: What’s behind the decision?
Plastic bottles are part of everyday life for many people, whether on the go, at the office, or during sports. In recent years, the materials used to make these bottles have come under increasing scrutiny, especially due to EU-level regulations. Consumers are paying more attention to which chemical substances may be present in their bottles. One of the most well-known and controversial substances is bisphenol A (BPA). BPA is often incorrectly referred to as a plasticizer. It has been heavily criticized for years because of its hormone-like effects and potential health risks, not only in plastic bottles.
EPR in Croatia: What exporters need to know
If you’re selling or shipping products to Croatia, there’s one topic you can’t ignore: Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR). This regulation requires companies to take responsibility for the entire lifecycle of their products. And it’s not just aimed at businesses based in Croatia – EPR also applies to exporters from the EU and abroad.
EPR in Switzerland – Recycling for businesses
Clear EPR obligations already apply in many European countries. Manufacturers and retailers are responsible for the entire life cycle of their packaging and must register with the relevant national systems and pay licence fees. But what is the situation in Switzerland?