EPR obligations in Turkey and the Western Balkans
Turkey and the Western Balkan countries—Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, North Macedonia, Serbia, and Kosovo—are becoming increasingly relevant for internationally operating businesses. The region combines economic potential with strategic importance but also poses challenges, such as compliance with Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) regulations. This article explores the economic framework and EPR requirements in Turkey and the Balkans, offering insights for companies looking to enter these markets.
For Quick Readers
Turkey and the Western Balkans are gaining relevance as markets with economic potential and strategic importance. For expanding businesses, EPR regulations are key: they include recycling requirements for packaging, electrical appliances, and batteries. While Turkey and Serbia already have well-developed systems, countries like Kosovo and Albania require the establishment of local partnerships and infrastructure. In addition to legal compliance, opportunities arise in recycling technologies, sustainable product development, and supply chains. We support you in meeting the legal EPR requirements in Turkey and the Western Balkans.
Why Turkey and the Balkans? Economic Potential and Strategic Importance
Turkey and the Western Balkans connect Europe with Asia and offer access to emerging markets with growing consumer demand. Below are some economic highlights:
Turkey:With a gross domestic product (GDP) of $900 billion, Turkey ranks among the leading economies in the region. Its well-developed infrastructure and diversified industry make it an attractive market for investors.
Serbia: Serbia is the largest economy in the Western Balkans (GDP: $66 billion) and benefits from free trade agreements with the EU, Russia, and other markets.
Albania and North Macedonia: With their rapidly growing markets and dynamic startup culture, these countries are becoming increasingly attractive to investors.
Kosovo: Despite its smaller size (GDP: $9 billion), the young nation shows significant potential in the areas of digitalization and the service economy.
Bosnia and Herzegovina: With abundant natural resources such as energy and raw materials, the country is particularly interesting for industries focusing on sustainability.
EPR as a Key Requirement for Market Players
Companies must prepare for specific Extended Producer Responsibility regulations in Turkey and the Balkans when entering these markets. These primarily concern:
- Packaging: Most countries in the region have EPR systems for packaging, requiring companies to meet recycling targets and pay fees for placing packaging on the market.
- Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE): Companies must ensure the collection and recycling of used devices. This involves setting up take-back systems and ensuring compliance with recycling quotas. We provide a comprehensive WEEE full-service solution for this purpose.
- Batteries: Strict regulations govern the collection and recycling of used batteries. Manufacturers or importers are required to set up collection points or join certified collection systems.
EPR requirements vary between Turkey and the Western Balkan countries, making thorough preparation and collaboration with local partners essential.
Country-Specific EPR Requirements – Turkey and the Balkans in Detail
EPR in Turkey
Turkey has one of the most advanced EPR systems in the region. Companies are required to:
- Register products through approved organizations,
- Fulfill recycling quotas for packaging, electrical appliances, and batteries,
- Regularly submit reports on product volumes and compliance.
The legislation is clearly defined and enforced with government support, facilitating compliance for international players.
EPR in Serbia
In Serbia, businesses benefit from a well-established waste management system. EPR regulations include:
- Obligations for registration and volume reporting,
- Recycling quotas for packaging, electronics, and batteries,
- Collaboration with certified recycling systems.
Proactive investments in recycling technologies and waste separation make Serbia a model for the region.
EPR in Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, North Macedonia, and Kosovo
In these countries, recycling and waste management infrastructure is still under development. Companies must:
- Adapt to limited collection and recycling systems,
- Engage local partners to ensure compliance with EPR requirements,
- Explore opportunities for investments in environmental technologies.
These states offer significant potential for companies operating in environmental technology or waste management system development.
EPR in the Balkans: Social and Cultural Dynamics
In addition to legal EPR requirements, understanding the local societies is crucial for success:
- Urbanization and Consumer Behavior: Cities like Belgrade, Skopje, and Sarajevo are hubs of innovation and consumption, offering access to environmentally conscious customer groups.
- Sustainability as a Growing Trend: Environmental awareness is increasing, especially among younger generations. Products with sustainable and recyclable materials are becoming more popular.
- Informal Waste Collection Systems: These systems are still common in many countries and should be factored into planning for waste management and EPR compliance in the Western Balkans.
Market Opportunities for Companies
The establishment of EPR systems in the Balkans and Turkey creates a range of opportunities for European businesses:
- Supply Chain Expansion: The region offers cost-effective production with access to EU markets.
- Investments in Recycling Infrastructure: High demand for recycling technologies, especially in Kosovo and Albania, makes this an attractive market for equipment and technology manufacturers.
- Sustainable Product Development: The focus on sustainability and recycling opens doors for innovative products and services.
Your Partner for EPR Compliance in Turkey and the Balkans
Meeting EPR requirements in the Balkans and Turkey can be challenging for businesses new to these markets. We offer comprehensive support, including:
- Registration and volume reporting,
- Collaboration with local recycling partners.
As an experienced EPR full-service provider with a focus on environmental compliance, we ensure that you meet all legal requirements efficiently, leaving you free to focus on growing your business.
Leverage our expertise in EPR to successfully expand into Turkey and the Balkans. Contact us for tailored solutions and seamless compliance with EPR regulations.
