New regulations in the United States: plastic packaging measures will reshape the industry

On December 4, 2024, the National Standards Technical Review Center of the United States notified the latest measures on plastic packaging, notification number G/TBT/N/USA/2088/Add.6. This measure amends the permanent regulations of the Plastic Pollution Prevention and Control and Packaging Manufacturer Responsibility Act, which is intended to further address the environmental challenges posed by plastic pollution.

While no specific date has been set for the proposed ratification and entry into force, the comment deadline is set for December 17, 2024, at which time extensive discussions will take place. The introduction of the new regulations is expected to have a profound impact on the production and use of various types of plastic packaging products, especially in pushing the industry towards a more environmentally friendly direction.

This action is part of a global effort by the United States to strengthen plastic regulation and reduce plastic pollution, with the goal of not only protecting the environment, but also imposing stricter responsibilities on manufacturers to reduce plastic use and improve the recyclability of packaging.

As an important step in response to this international trend, the measure will affect the packaging industry in the United States and will also affect countries that trade with it. The TBT Assessment Centre will assist enterprises in assessing the potential impact of the measure on exports and seek to address possible TBT through substantive consultations.

Experts said that the implementation of this new regulation will be a big step for the United States in the field of plastic packaging, and companies need to adapt to the new standards as soon as possible to ensure compliance and maintain market competitiveness. At the same time, the response of countries to this measure will also affect the changes in the global plastic packaging market.