UK Plastic Packaging Tax Update – Effective 1st April 2025

From 1st April 2025, the UK Plastic Packaging Tax (PPT) will increase from £217.85 per tonne to £223.69 per tonne, in line with the Consumer Price Index (CPI).

This tax applies to plastic packaging that contains less than 30% recycled content. It forms part of the UK government’s ongoing efforts to incentivise the use of recycled materials in packaging and reduce reliance on virgin plastic. We’ve prepared a helpful guide for you – available here.

Who does the tax apply to?

The tax directly affects producers and importers of plastic packaging. As an importer, BlueSky is responsible for accounting and paying this tax to HMRC. You, as our customer, do not need to submit reports or payments for the tax.

How will it affect pricing?

The cost of the tax will be included in your product price where applicable. This will appear as a written statement on your invoice:

“The cost of the plastic tax is included in the price.”

Please note:

• The tax applies to plastic packaging items with less than 30% Post-Consumer Recycled (PCR) content.

• The price of packaging may increase due to rising demand and cost of PCR materials, even where recycled content is used.

Recyclability and Sustainable Choices

Whether your packaging uses virgin or PCR plastic, materials such as PET, PE, and PP remain widely recyclable across the UK.

To further reduce your environmental impact, consider:

• Reducing packaging weight

• Reusing packaging (e.g. refillable formats)

• Removing unnecessary plastic components

• Ensuring all components are recyclable

Visit OPRL for guidance on clear recyclability labelling.

Alternatives

Looking to go plastic-free? BlueSky offers alternative packaging materials, including aluminium – a permanently available and infinitely recyclable resource.

We’re also happy to help you develop 100% recyclable packs, including matching recyclable bottles with suitable closures, such as mono-material lotion pumps.

How BlueSky Supports You

• We handle all PPT compliance and reporting.

• Plastic packaging weights will be included on your delivery notes and invoices.

• Where the tax applies, the cost is automatically included in your price.

• If your packaging includes 30%+ PCR or is exported outside the UK, no tax will be charged.

• If you’re packing licensed pharmaceutical products, please ensure we have your licence numbers in advance – otherwise, the tax may apply.

If you have questions about how the UK Plastic Packaging Tax affects your product range, or if you’d like support in making your packaging more sustainable, contact your Account Manager or get in touch with our team at [email protected].