With the adoption of the new Packaging Ordinance (VerpV) on June 24, 2026, the Federal Council took an important step toward the further development of Switzerland’s circular economy. The ordinance will take effect on January 1, 2027, and will replace the previous Beverage Packaging Ordinance (VGV).

For the first time, the federal government is establishing a comprehensive legal framework for packaging. At the same time, the ordinance implements key elements of the parliamentary initiative “Strengthening the Swiss Circular Economy” as well as the Dobler motion to promote plastic recycling. This will fundamentally advance the framework conditions for collection, recycling, and producer responsibility in Switzerland.

An Overview of the Most Important Changes

New Packaging Requirements Starting in 2030

Starting in 2030, packaging must be designed to conserve resources and be as recyclable as possible. Criteria such as recyclability, material efficiency, and sustainable packaging design are thus becoming significantly more important.

Obligation to Take Back Plastic Packaging and Beverage Cartons

Starting in 2031, a subsidiary take-back obligation will apply to single-use plastic packaging and beverage cartons. Manufacturers and retailers must take back this packaging—either directly or through industry organizations such as RecyPac—and ensure it is recycled.

Once the regulation takes effect in 2027, corresponding collection systems may be operated, provided they meet the legal requirements. This will provide existing and new industry solutions with the legal certainty needed for expansion throughout Switzerland.

Mandatory Recycling Targets

For the first time, the regulation sets binding recycling rates. Starting in 2032, the following targets will apply:

• 70% for beverage cartons
• 55% for single-use plastic packaging

If these targets are not met, the Federal Council may order additional measures. These include, in particular, an advance recycling fee or the introduction of a deposit system.

Extension of the disposal fee to glass packaging

Starting in 2028, the advance disposal fee (VEG) will be extended to all glass food and cosmetic packaging. Until now, this regulation applied exclusively to beverage packaging.

New Reporting Requirements for Manufacturers

Starting in 2031, manufacturers must track and report the quantities of packaging placed on the market by material type. The goal is to establish a better data foundation for managing and further developing Switzerland’s packaging cycles.

Implications for the Packaging Industry

The new Packaging Ordinance sets the stage for a more circular packaging economy. The ordinance reinforces the responsibility of manufacturers and distributors, provides legal certainty for industry solutions such as RecyPac, and, for the first time, sets binding targets for the material recycling of packaging. Compared to the European Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), Switzerland is taking a comparatively pragmatic approach.

For companies across the entire value chain, the implementation phase is now beginning. Manufacturers, retailers, recycling companies, collection systems, and municipalities are called upon to work together to implement the new requirements in a practical manner. It will be crucial to establish efficient collection and recycling structures and to sustainably close the targeted material cycles.

About the Swiss Packaging Ordinance

Statement by the Federal Council

SVI welcomes the new Packaging Ordinance as an important step toward a functioning circular economy. It will now be crucial to ensure that implementation is practical and takes into account innovations as well as existing industry solutions. Only in this way can the ambitious goals be achieved together. The SVI will share information on this matter with its members.