In Estonia, the packaging tax has been in effect since 1997. It is not a regular tax that all companies pay.
So far, the tax has been paid by those who sell goods with packaging but do not collect enough waste. The state now wants to abolish this tax.
In recent years, the state has earned about 300,000 euros annually from this tax. Minister Kuldar Leis says that tax revenue has decreased.
According to him, times have changed, and most companies now comply with waste norms. Smaller companies are the only ones paying the tax. Therefore, the tax no longer makes sense.
However, companies must continue to collect packaging waste. This is required by the Waste Act.
The state wants to implement European Union regulations. The goal is to reduce waste and increase packaging recycling.
The Chamber of Agriculture and Commerce supports the abolition of the tax. This reduces the burden on businesses.
The Chamber of Commerce is pleased that small businesses will no longer have to submit packaging reports in the future. Previously, the limit was 20 tons, now it is 100 tons.
However, large companies must report on the composition of their packaging. This means they have more work to do.
The Chamber of Commerce is concerned that the new rules are too detailed. Companies must precisely describe the materials and composition of packaging.
Minister Leis says that the state is in constant dialogue with business organizations. The goal is to reduce waste and increase recycling.