Deposit System Changes: New Rules, Obligations, and Deadlines for Packaging.
The act introduces significant changes to the functioning of the deposit-refund system in Poland, set to launch no earlier than October 1, 2025. It defines new obligations for stores, beverage producers, and system operators, and clarifies rules for deposit and VAT settlements. The goal is to improve packaging collection and recycling, impacting citizens' daily shopping and environmental habits.
Key points
**Deposit System Launch**: The deposit-refund system launch is set for no earlier than October 1, 2025.
**Store Obligations**: Small stores (up to 200 m²) must collect deposits for all covered packaging, but are only obliged to return deposits and accept empty reusable glass bottles. For plastic bottles and metal cans, this is voluntary.
**Deposit and VAT**: Deposits are not included in the VAT taxable amount. If packaging is not returned, the producer must increase the tax base by the difference in deposit value.
**System Financing**: Funds from unclaimed deposits and the sale of collected packaging waste will be used to finance the deposit-refund system.
**New Operator Requirements**: Representing entities must ensure at least one stationary collection point in every municipality and meet requirements regarding clean criminal records for company authorities.
**Penalties for Producers**: Beverage producers who do not conclude an agreement with a representing entity will pay a triple product fee.
**Transitional Labeling Rules**: In 2025, the use of the existing deposit marking pattern is permitted alongside the new pattern defined in the act.
54%
VOTING RESULTS
2024-11-21
For
240
Against
19
Abstain
184
Status:
Enacted
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