Italian plastic packaging tax delayed to 2026

The Italian Senate has voted to postpone the introduction of a plastic packaging tax for another two years until 1 July 2026.

Parliament originally approved legislation to impose a tax on single-use plastic packaging in the 2020 financial year. But it has been a contentious and complex political issue that has received push back from the industry, resulting in its introduction being postponed seven times.

The proposed tax is expected to follow a similar model to Spain's existing plastic tax, with the tax rate in Italy's legislation fixed at €0.45/kg of virgin plastic.

The tax is designed to cover plastic products such as bottles, bags, food containers, bubble wrap, caps and other single-use plastic items. Recycled plastics and compostable plastics will be exempt.

By Chloe Kinner