EWKFondsG for International Traders & Importers
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The EWKFondsG also affects companies outside of Germany
Many international retailers and importers assume that German environmental laws only apply to companies based in Germany.
With the Disposable Plastic Fund Act (EWKFondsG), this is a dangerous misconception.
Because:
Even foreign companies without a branch in Germany are subject to reporting and auditing requirements as soon as they commercially supply disposable plastic products to Germany.
This is exactly where DIVID-Mengenmeldung comes in:
We enable international, fully digital audits according to the EWKFondsG – legally compliant, on time and without a German company domicile.
When are foreign companies affected by the EWKFondsG?
A company based abroad (e.g. EU, UK, Switzerland, China or USA) is considered a manufacturer under the EWKFondsG if it:
- sells single-use plastic products directly to Germany
- places products on the market in Germany for the first time
- supplies B2B & B2C customers in Germany
- offers goods via online shops, marketplaces or direct sales
💡 A German company domicile is not required.
💡 Pure online retailers and importers are also affected.
Typical affected companies from abroad
Particularly often affected are:
- International online retailers (e.g. Amazon sellers, Shopify shops)
- Importers of packaging or consumer goods
- Private labels / private label providers (fillers)
- Producers with direct sales to Germany
- B2B wholesalers without a German branch
If your products contain disposable plastic (even if only partially), the EWKFondsG applies.
Which products are relevant?
Typical single-use plastic products include:
- Food packaging for immediate consumption
- Beverage cups and containers
- Lightweight plastic carrier bags
- Wet wipes with plastic content
- Packaging with plastic coating
- Fireworks
💡 Even mixed materials (e.g. paper + plastic) are subject to reporting.
Obligations for international retailers & importers
Regardless of the company's location, the same core obligations apply:
1️⃣ Registration on the DIVID platform
→ in the portal of the German Environment Agency (UBA)
2️⃣ Annual quantity report according to EWKFondsG
→ Breakdown by product types and weights
→ Deadline: May 15th of the following year
3️⃣ Audit obligation for higher quantities
→ Audit only by accredited auditors
→ DIVID-Mengenmeldung also organizes this audit from abroad
The biggest hurdle: Auditing from abroad
Many international companies ask themselves the same question:
"How are we supposed to conduct a German EWKFondsG audit if we are not even based in Germany?"
The answer:
👉 Digitally, via DIVID-Mengenmeldung directly on our website.
DIVID-Mengenmeldung: EWKFondsG audit – also for foreign companies
We specialize in implementing EWKFondsG audits for importers & retailers from abroad.
Our audit service for international companies:
✅ No German branch required
✅ Fully digital processing
✅ Accredited auditors according to ZSVR standard
✅ Experience with international company structures
✅ Legally compliant audit confirmation with QES
Regardless of whether your company is based in the EU or a third country – we support you from the initial data check to the final audit certificate.
👉 Get an audit now – even from abroad!