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EDANA, 14 EU Industry Bodies Seek Flexible Packaging Labels To Protect Competitiveness

• By  Textile Excellence
• June 17, 2026

EDANA and 14 European manufacturing associations have jointly urged the European Commission to adopt a pragmatic, harmonised packaging labelling system under the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), warning that fragmented rules are raising costs and undermining competitiveness.

The industry coalition proposed text free pictograms, monochromatic or achromatic label options, and broader use of digital labels such as QR codes and Digital Product Passports. The group argued that mandatory multilingual text and additional colour requirements would complicate packaging design, increase waste and create trade barriers across the Single Market. The joint statement estimates that extra colour mandates alone could add up to 30% to packaging costs, translating into millions of euros annually for some manufacturers. 

EDANA said clear, recognisable labels remain essential for consumers, but excessive and overlapping requirements risk causing confusion and operational inefficiencies. The associations also called on Member States to repeal existing national labelling schemes once EU harmonised labels are adopted, allowing companies to implement a single packaging update across markets. EDANA represents more than 250 nonwovens industry members worldwide. 

EDANA said clear, recognisable labels remain essential for consumers, but excessive and overlapping requirements risk causing confusion and operational inefficiencies. The associations also called on Member States to repeal existing national labelling schemes once EU harmonised labels are adopted, allowing companies to implement a single packaging update across markets. EDANA represents more than 250 nonwovens industry members worldwide.