Union of Chambers and Commodity Exchanges of Turkey

Speaking at the opening of the meeting, Engin Yeşil, a member of the TOBB Board of Directors, emphasized that the packaging industry is a sector of strategic importance in terms of production, exports, and sustainable development goals. Noting that developments in the global economy, changes in trade policies, and rising expectations for sustainability directly impact the sector, Yeşil highlighted the importance of effectively conveying the sector’s views and recommendations to decision-making bodies during this process.

Speaking later in the meeting, Zeki Kıvanç, a member of the TOBB Board of Directors, noted that recent regulations implemented at the national and international levels closely affect the packaging sector, and stated that it has become more important than ever for the sector to form a common position. Highlighting that issues such as regulations on single-use plastics, the European Union Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation, developments in international trade, and preparations for COP31 Türkiye 2026 are of critical importance to the sector, Kıvanç emphasized that the Packaging Council plays a key role in conveying the sector’s problems, demands, and proposed solutions to the relevant authorities.

During the meeting, while the work being carried out on the Draft Regulation on Single-Use Plastics was evaluated, Elif Berrak Taşyürek, Director of the Department of International Agreements and the EU at the Ministry of Trade, provided information on the obligations and compliance processes the sector may face under the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation. In addition, preparations for COP31 Türkiye 2026 and the role the business community will play in the process were shared with the participants. The meeting concluded with general evaluations following the collection of participants’ views and assessments.