Jörg Dittrich, the President of the Central Association of German Craftsmen (ZDH), has clearly opposed the planned introduction of a plastic tax. Speaking to the “Rheinische Post”, Dittrich stated that the proposed plastic packaging levy is the wrong path forward.
According to the ZDH president, the tax would primarily burden the food crafts sector by imposing additional costs and bureaucracy, all without delivering a credible ecological benefit. He argued that plastic packaging is often indispensable for hygienic and preservation reasons when dealing with various artisan foods. He added that these costs would inevitably be passed through the supply chain, ultimately affecting both businesses and consumers.
Dittrich also criticized the political uncertainty surrounding the legislation, pointing out that the ongoing dispute between the Union and the SPD demonstrates how unreliable the political framework is for businesses. Furthermore, he questioned the reasoning behind the Federal Government choosing to impose another tax burden on enterprises and operations during the current economic climate. For the crafts industry, Dittrich emphasized that what is required is stability and relief, rather than perpetually new debates surrounding increased obligations.
He concluded by insisting that the plastic tax must be abandoned. Instead, he argued that efforts to reduce packaging waste must focus on practical, viable solutions that successfully integrate environmental goals with the fundamental operational requirements of the businesses.
