Industry news
Regulation, materials and trade notes for buyers of custom and ready-stock bags.
EU packaging rules now apply: what changed for bag buyers on 12 August 2026
Regulation (EU) 2025/40 has applied since 12 August 2026. Recyclability, recycled content and reuse formats are now legal requirements, not marketing language.
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California's plastic bag ban is now total — and reusable bags inherit the demand
Since 1 January 2026 California stores may only hand out recycled paper bags at checkout. The thicker plastic bag that was meant to be reusable is gone, and fabric bags are taking its place.
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Five US state rules that took effect in 2026, and what they mean for a printed bag
Washington changed its bag fees, Illinois and Maine restricted PFAS in food packaging, New York widened its foam ban. A short checklist for anyone importing printed bags into the US.
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CPSC eFiling is live: children's backpacks now need certificate data at the border
Since 8 July 2026, certificate data for regulated consumer products must be filed electronically with the customs entry. Children's backpacks and school supplies are on the list, and there is no de mi···
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Recycled PET still costs more than virgin in 2026 — budget for it properly
Recyclate prices came under pressure through 2026, but rPET has not fallen to virgin PET levels. Buyers who want a recycled claim should price it as a separate line, not as a discount.
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