Why knowing your packaging composition matters

In today’s global marketplace, having agreat product is no longer enough. Every part of your product, including its packaging, is subject to environmental laws, labelling rules, and consumer expectations. As a legal representative, whether you are a manufacturer, importer, or brand owner, you are accountable for ensuring that the packaging complies with regulations in every market where your products are sold. Failing to correctly identify material elements, or mislabeling them, can result infines, product rejections at customs, reputational damage, or even being barred from important markets.

The recent UL article 'Environmental labeling of packaging – Japan and South Korea' highlights just how detailed these requirements can be. It serves as a reminder of the importance of knowing exactly what your packaging is made of and ensuring that every element is correctly labeled for compliance.

In Japan, packaging materials must carry identification marks indicating their material composition under the Act on the Promotion of Effective Utilisation of Resources. This includes plastics, paper, PET bottles, steel cans , and aluminum cans . If packaging is made from composite materials, the labeling must indicate the heaviest material. There are also strict requirements for how the labels are displayed, including minimum sizes and visibility rules. South Korea has similar but distinct requirements under the Act on the Promotion of Saving and Recycling of Resources. Packaging must carry separate collection markings for plastics, glass, metals, and coated or laminated paper. Recent updates through Presidential Decree No. 34533 refined which types of coated or bonded packaging must bemarked. Again, there are clear rules about the size and contrast of the symbols to ensure that they can be easily identified by consumers.

‍Why this matters for legal representatives

For legal representatives, understanding packaging composition is not simply a technical detail, it is a matter of compliance and liability. By knowing exactly what materials are in your packaging, you ensure your business meets regulatory standards and avoids costly non-compliance issues.

Transparency within your supply chain isalso critical. Even if materials come from different suppliers, the legal responsibility for correct labeling ultimately falls on you. Errors in labeling can lead to shipment delays, rejected goods, or damage to your company’s reputation.

Clear labeling also helps build consumer trust. It demonstrates a commitment to both environmental responsibility and regulatory compliance. As regulations evolve, particularly in regions like South Korea which recently updated its decree, staying informed is essential to maintaining compliance and competitiveness.

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