Singapore EPR

What is Singapore EPR Packaging

Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) in Singapore is a waste management strategy aimed at closing the plastic and packaging loop. Currently, it operates under the Mandatory Packaging Reporting (MPR) framework of the Resource Sustainability Act (RSA) 2019. The system is transitioning toward a full-scale EPR model, with the first major phase—the Beverage Container Return Scheme (Deposit Return Scheme)—scheduled to launch in April 2026. The National Environment Agency (NEA) is the primary regulatory body overseeing these requirements.

Does this apply to e-commerce & online sales

Yes. The MPR and upcoming EPR requirements apply to e-commerce operators and online retailers that supply packaged goods to the Singapore market. If a foreign entity ships products directly to Singaporean consumers (B2C) and meets the turnover threshold, it is legally obligated to report its packaging data and submit waste reduction plans.

Who is the “producer” under Singapore EPR?

Under the RSA, "obligated producers" include:

1. Brand Owners: Companies that package products under their own brand for sale in Singapore.

2. Manufacturers: Local entities that package goods.

3. Importers: Entities that bring packaged products into Singapore for local supply.

4. Retailers: Including supermarkets and e-commerce platforms that use packaging for delivery or sale.

Who must register for EPR packaging in Singapore

Producers meeting the threshold must register with the National Environment Agency (NEA). Registration and reporting are handled via the NEA’s online portal. For the upcoming Beverage Container Return Scheme (2026), producers of bottled and canned drinks must also join a Producer Responsibility Scheme (PRS) operator.

Singapore EPR Packaging Registration Threshold

The threshold for mandatory compliance is based on the company's size and volume:

• Annual Turnover: Exceeding S$10 million.

• Packaging Volume: While the turnover is the primary trigger, the regime captures all types of packaging (B2B and B2C) once the turnover criterion is met.

Unlike some EU countries, Singapore does not yet have a widespread "zero-threshold" for all small businesses, but the S$10 million cap captures most mid-to-large-scale e-commerce players.

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Packaging Covered (and Excluded)

The MPR covers all packaging materials:

• Primary (Sales) packaging: E.g., perfume boxes, food wrappers.

• Secondary packaging: E.g., multi-pack shrink wraps.

• Tertiary (Transport) packaging: E.g., shipping boxes, pallets, and bubble wrap.

Materials include plastic, paper, cardboard, metal, glass, and wood. Exclusions are rare but can apply to certain medicinal or health-related products if they meet specific NEA criteria.

Producer Responsibility Organization (PRO)

For general packaging, the system is currently managed directly by the NEA through the reporting framework. However, for the 2026 Beverage Container Return Scheme, a single PRS Operator will be designated to manage the collection and refund of deposits for plastic bottles and metal cans.

EPR Registration in Singapore

1. Check Eligibility: Verify if your annual turnover exceeds S$10 million.

2. Account Creation: Register on the NEA Packaging Portal.

3. Data Collection: Track the weight and material of all packaging used in the previous calendar year.

4. 3R Plan Submission: Alongside the data, you must submit a 3R (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle) Plan outlining how you intend to reduce packaging waste over the next three years.

Authorized Representative

For foreign e-commerce companies without a local presence, appointing a local representative is highly recommended to manage communications with the NEA and ensure data accuracy, especially as the transition to full EPR (including fees) continues through 2026.

What Data Must Be Reported

Obligated companies must report:

• Material Type: Plastic, Paper, Metal, Glass, Wood, etc.

• Weight: Total weight in tonnes (or kilograms for smaller granular tracking).

• Form: E.g., bottles, boxes, bags.

• Methodology: A description of how the data was collected and verified.

First Reporting Period & EPR Reporting Deadlines

Reporting follows the calendar year:

• Annual Deadline: March 31st of each year.

• 2026 Submission: Data for the 2025 calendar year must be submitted by March 31, 2026.

• Beverage Scheme: Specific registration for the deposit-refund scheme starts ahead of the April 2026 launch.

Labels & Marketing Claims

Singapore encourages the use of the Singapore Packaging Agreement (SPA) logos and standard recycling symbols. From April 2026, all beverage containers in the Return Scheme must carry a mandatory deposit logo and specific barcode to be eligible for the refund.

EPR Eco Fees & Eco-Modulation

Currently, there are no "per-kg" eco-fees for general packaging, only administrative compliance. However, with the full EPR launch (starting with beverages in 2026), producers will pay operator fees to the PRS to cover collection and processing costs. Fees will eventually be "modulated" to reward packaging that is easier to recycle.

Risks, Penalties & Common Mistakes

• Fines: Failure to report or maintain accurate records can lead to fines of up to S$10,000, imprisonment, or both.

• Record Keeping: You must keep all supporting documents (invoices, weight sheets) for 5 years.

• Common Mistake: Ignoring "shipping packaging" (the box the customer receives) and only focusing on the product's primary box.

What E-Commerce Sellers Should Do Now

1. Calculate Turnover: Confirm if your Singapore-linked revenue exceeds S$10M.

2. Start Tracking: Begin weighing every packaging component (tape, boxes, bags).

3. Draft a 3R Plan: Consider lightweighting or switching to mono-materials to satisfy NEA requirements.

4. Prepare for April 2026: If selling drinks, ensure your barcodes and labels meet the new Deposit Scheme standards.

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FAQ

Is there a mass-based threshold for Singapore?

• No, once you hit the S$10M turnover mark, you must report all packaging.

What is the 3R Plan?

• It is a mandatory document detailing your strategy to Reduce, Reuse, or Recycle your packaging waste.

Do I need to report B2B packaging?

• Yes, both B2B and B2C packaging are reportable under the MPR.

When does the Deposit Return Scheme start?

• The official rollout is scheduled for April 2026.