
Navigating the 2025 Plastic Packaging Tax Increase.
17th January 2025
At JPK Trade Supplies, we believe staying informed is essential to staying ahead. With the UK government’s recent announcement of updates to the Plastic Packaging Tax (PPT), set to take effect on April 1st 2025, we’re here to ensure you’re fully prepared. As experts in bespoke polythene bags, we understand the potential impact of these changes and are committed to helping you navigate them with clarity and confidence.
Who will be affected?
The revised tax will apply to UK manufacturers and importers of plastic packaging, as well as businesses and consumers purchasing goods wrapped in plastic. However, businesses producing or importing fewer than 10 tonnes of plastic packaging annually remain exempt from the tax, ensuring the focus stays on larger-scale contributors.
The key updates:
Here’s what you need to know:
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Current Tax Rate: The tax applies to plastic packaging that is predominantly plastic by weight and contains less than 30% recycled material. The current rate is £217.85 per tonne.
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New Rate: From April 1, 2025, the rate will rise to £223.90 per tonne, reflecting adjustments aligned with the Consumer Price Index (CPI).
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The Goal: These changes aim to create a stronger economic incentive for businesses to incorporate recycled materials into their packaging, boosting recycling rates and reducing waste sent to landfill or incineration.
The bigger picture
The Plastic Packaging Tax isn’t just about numbers—it’s a cornerstone of the UK government’s Resources and Waste Strategy, introduced in April 2022. By encouraging the use of recycled plastics and reducing reliance on virgin materials, the tax is helping drive the nation toward its ambitious goal of eliminating avoidable plastic waste by 2042.
Preparing for changes ahead
Starting April 2025, the updated tax rate will apply to all plastic packaging manufactured or imported into the UK. While the rate increase might seem incremental, it’s part of a larger shift toward sustainability and accountability in the packaging industry.
At JPK Trade Supplies, we’re not just adapting to these changes—we’re here to support you every step of the way. From exploring compliant and eco-friendly packaging solutions to providing expert guidance on regulatory requirements, our mission is to help your business thrive in this evolving landscape.
Change often brings challenges, but it also creates opportunities. Let’s work together to turn this regulatory update into a chance to lead the way in sustainable packaging. Ready to take the next step? We’re here to help.
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