378Starting from January 1, 2025, Spain will implement an important packaging regulation aimed at promoting the recycling of packaging, reducing environmental pollution, and enhancing consumer awareness regarding the handling of packaging materials.
For sellers who sell products on Amazon Spain, this means they must respond promptly to new compliance requirements.
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Regulation Background and Effective Date
From January 1, 2025, all product packaging sold in the Spanish market must indicate relevant recycling information, clearly labeling how to handle these packaging materials so that consumers can correctly sort and recycle them, contributing to resource reuse.
Which Sellers Are Affected?
All sellers who sell products to Spanish consumers must comply with this regulation. Regardless of where the products originate, if they are sold in the Spanish market, sellers are responsible for ensuring that packaging meets regulatory requirements.
Especially for Amazon sellers, Amazon reminds that sellers should prepare compliance documentation to ensure timely response when requested by the platform. If sellers fail to provide relevant proof, Amazon has the right to remove non-compliant products.
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Regulatory Requirements: Specific Provisions for Packaging Labels
1. Classification of Packaging Waste:
Packaging must clearly indicate the classification of waste and type of container. For example, materials such as cardboard and plastic must be clearly labeled and classified separately for each material. If the packaging is made of composite materials, the main material classification must be indicated.
2. Compostable Packaging:
If the packaging material is compostable plastic, it must be indicated that it meets the certification requirements of the European standard UNE EN13432:2001.
3. Reusable Packaging:
If the product packaging is designed to be reusable, please clearly indicate its reusable characteristics and include a deposit refund label.
4. Label Language Requirements:
Labels must be in Spanish and must be clear and legible.
5. Unified Label Usage:
Merchants can use unified labels for all products, but if different packaging materials are used, each material must have its corresponding independent label.
These labeling requirements are intended to help consumers clearly understand how to handle packaging waste and promote recycling and circular economy development in the Spanish market.
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How to Ensure Compliance?
To ensure compliance, sellers can refer to the following suggestions:
1. Check Packaging Materials:
Sellers should check all product packaging for sale to ensure it meets classification and labeling requirements. If different packaging materials are used, corresponding labels must be provided for each material.
2. Prepare Compliance Documents:
For sellers using Amazon logistics, ensure that QR codes can be printed smoothly on packaging and prepare relevant compliance documents. Sellers who self-fulfill orders must apply for and obtain compliance marks according to Spanish regulations.
3. Update Product Information:
Sellers should regularly check product pages to ensure all product packaging information is updated and meets requirements.
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Conclusion
Although the implementation of Spain's packaging regulations brings additional compliance pressure, it also provides sellers with an opportunity to enhance brand image and cater to environmental protection trends. Packaging that meets environmental requirements not only increases consumer trust but also promotes sustainable brand development. Sellers should seize this opportunity to ensure compliance and gain a competitive advantage in the market.
