EU coalition targets EPR red tape for textiles

BRUSSELS — Ten European industry associations, including the European Apparel and Textile Confederation (Euratex), have called on the EU to back a proposed freeze on rules requiring companies to appoint separate national Authorised Representatives (ARs) in every EU member state where they sell goods under Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) schemes.

The Commission’s proposal — tabled as part of the Environmental Omnibus package — would suspend until 1 January 2035 the requirement for companies to appoint separate ARs in each EU member state where they sell textile, footwear, electrical and electronic equipment, and single-use plastic products.