Textile EPR: ReDress explains how foreign producers selling in Italy can prepare for new requirements

On July 23, the Unified Conference approved the draft regulation that will establish the extended producer responsibility (EPR) scheme for textile and footwear products in Italy.

The minister of environment and energy security, Gilberto Pichetto, commenting on the approval of the draft regulation prepared by the ministry, emphasised: “With this measure, we are making those who first place textile products on the national market responsible, calling on them to contribute concretely to the end-of-life management of goods. This is a long-awaited reform. It implements one of the key instruments of the National Strategy for the Circular Economy and introduces clear rules, promoting a more efficient, transparent and sustainability-oriented supply chain.”

“The regulation adopts a broad definition of 'producer', including not only manufacturers but also large distributors who place products on the Italian market for the first time. This choice considers the evolution of international trade. It also helps to promote higher product quality, countering consumption models based on rapid obsolescence,” Pichetto added in a note.

The decree can now proceed to its final two formal stages: review by the Council of State and registration with the Court of Auditors, with final approval expected by the end of 2026.

ReDress explains how foreign producers selling in Italy can prepare for new regulatory requirements

Following the approval by the Italian Unified Conference, ReDress is explaining how foreign producers selling in Italy can prepare for the new regulatory requirements. ReDress is the non-profit consortium for textile EPR management, founded in 2024 and promoted by the British multinational Reconomy.

“With the ministerial decree expected shortly, Italy is making its national EPR scheme operational ahead of the June 17, 2027 deadline set by Directive (EU) 2025/1892. For businesses, this means that compliance obligations will apply as soon as the Italian legislation comes into force. The obligation applies to any company that first places a textile product on the Italian market, regardless of the company's location. This includes business-to-consumer e-commerce and sales through marketplaces like Amazon.it. Company size is not an exemption: obligations begin from the first kilogram placed on the market, with the only exception being a one-year extension granted to micro-enterprises,” ReDress explained in a note. Producers must join one of the accredited Producer Responsibility Organisations (PROs).

“For international brands, preparing now means safeguarding sales continuity, managing costs and building a consistent compliance strategy across multiple countries. ReDress was created specifically to support this transition by combining the expertise of the Italian supply chain with Reconomy's global network,” added Sara Faccioli, chair of the board of directors at ReDress and managing director of Rlg Systems Italia. In Italy, ReDress is supported by Rlg Systems Italia, which has been active for over 15 years in managing EPR systems and 25 years in special waste management.

Under the draft law, the producer is defined as the entity that first places products on the Italian market, including through distance selling. Foreign brands should therefore identify who assumes this role within their commercial structure; identify the products falling within the scope of application; organise market placement data by category and weight; select an individual compliance system or a recognised consortium; register with the National Register; and prepare the required declarations and payments of the environmental contribution.

Companies that sell directly online to Italian consumers without a legal entity in Italy must appoint an authorised representative based in Italy. Furthermore, among the obligations for businesses is the payment of an environmental contribution based on the volume of products placed on the Italian market, intended to finance collection, sorting and recycling operations.

Italian reporting obligations require declarations to be submitted in kilograms

Italian reporting obligations require declarations to be submitted in kilograms rather than by individual item or SKU (stock keeping unit), as is the case in some European EPR systems. Adjusting the internal data architecture typically takes between 12 and 18 months, making timely preparation essential, ReDress experts emphasised.

Failure to comply with these regulations carries tangible commercial as well as administrative risks. Customs authorities can block shipments lacking a valid registration code, while online marketplaces are increasingly adopting zero-tolerance policies, suspending or removing listings from sellers unable to demonstrate their compliance.

Drawing on Italy's experience with compliance schemes for WEEE and batteries, Italy is establishing Corit (Textile Recycling Coordination Centre), a central body responsible for coordinating producer consortia. Corit will oversee the operation of the EPR system, define common operating standards and coordinate collection agreements with municipalities through the National Association of Italian Municipalities.