Selling into Spain? Make sure you’re compliant with their new packaging labelling regulations

New packaging labelling regulations came into force in Spain on 1 January 2025. All e-commerce companies and marketplace sellers (Amazon, eBay, Leroy Merlin, etc.) that sell their products in Spain, regardless of their country of incorporation, must adapt to these new regulations.

These measures, outlined in Royal Decree 1055/2022, seek to promote the circular economy and facilitate the correct management of waste by allowing consumers to quickly identify where the waste generated should be deposited.

What does the new legislation mean for e-commerce sellers?

The main new feature is the obligation to include symbols and material identification codes on all packaging. These graphic elements must be visible, legible, and permanently affixed to the packaging, providing information to consumers on how to dispose of each product correctly following the waste container system in place on streets throughout Spain.

For e-commerce sellers, this means that all products you send to your Spanish customers must comply with several labelling requirements:

• Clear disposal indications: Packaging must clearly and concisely indicate in which container (yellow, blue, green or grey) the waste should be deposited.
• Format of the labelling and symbols: Each labelling symbol should be at least 8mm in size. Ideally, a size of 10 mm should be used to optimise legibility.
• Separable materials: If packaging is composed of different materials, the corresponding container must be specified for each one
• Compostable packaging: Compostable packaging must be marked ‘do not leave in the environment’
• Reusable packaging: Reusable packaging shall indicate this characteristic and, if applicable, the Deposit, Return and Refund System (DRS) symbol
• Environmental pictograms: Specific pictograms will be introduced for plastics, helping with their identification and classification

Why is this new regulation important for e-commerce sellers?

• Legal compliance and brand reputation: Failure to comply with these regulations can result in financial penalties and damage to your company’s reputation
• Customer satisfaction: Consumers are increasingly aware of the importance of sustainability

Complying with these regulations will demonstrate your commitment to the environment and enhance your brand image.

How do you prepare for the new regulation?

• Get detailed information from suppliers: Ask your suppliers for detailed information on packaging materials and recycling instructions
• Review your labels: Update your product labels to comply with the new requirements
• Supplier selection: Prioritise suppliers that offer compliant packaging and are committed to sustainability
• Management software: Research software that allows you to manage your labels and ensure compliance efficiently

Also:

• Keep your packaging sustainable: Opt for recycled, biodegradable or compostable packaging whenever possible
• Reduce the packaging: Minimise the use of unnecessary packaging to reduce your carbon footprint

A challenge, but an opportunity

The new labelling regulations represent a challenge but also an opportunity for e-commerce businesses. By adapting to these changes, you will not only comply with the law but also improve your brand image, increase customer satisfaction, and contribute to a more sustainable future.