European Tape Market Faces Expanding Regulatory Pressures Across Packaging, Chemicals, and Sustainab

Companies operating across the European adhesive tape market are continuing to monitor a growing number of regulatory developments that may affect packaging compliance, chemical use, sustainability reporting, and market access in the years ahead.

According to Afera, these developments were reviewed during the latest meeting of its Regulatory Affairs Working Group, which examined legislative files tied to the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), REACH restrictions, the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), and other policy initiatives relevant to tape manufacturers, converters, and suppliers.

The discussion included issues such as release liner classification, design for recycling for paper packaging, PFAS in food-contact packaging, transport packaging reuse, and supplier information requirements. These topics may influence how tape products, packaging-related materials, and associated components are classified, assessed, and documented in the future.

The review also covered the REACH microplastics restriction and pellet loss regulation, both of which may affect how companies interpret material scope, reporting obligations, and operational requirements.

Additional discussion addressed the EU Deforestation Regulation, particularly in relation to due diligence and documentation requirements for paper-based materials and natural rubber-related supply chains. Afera also noted developments involving n-hexane on the SVHC Candidate List, the Green Claims Directive, omnibus changes to CSRD and CSDDD, and the evolving direction of REACH revision.

Beyond those priority files, the sector is also tracking a wider range of policy proposals that may affect downstream markets such as transport, packaging, construction, and electronics, including the End-of-Life Vehicles Regulation, PFAS restrictions, flame retardants, silicone monomers, ESPR, the Circular Economy Act, the Advanced Materials Act, and the Industrial Accelerator Act.

Afera stated that a more detailed regulatory analysis is available through its members-only quarterly update.

Source: Afera