Supply Chain Act: Less bureaucracy - but at whose expense?

Every packaging supplier knows it: As soon as a customer makes an inquiry, lengthy questionnaires arrive. Where do the materials come from? Are they sustainable? What certifications are there? And even if everything has been proven multiple times, the game starts all over again with the next order.

Now the EU wants to reduce bureaucracy. Finally, less paperwork? Sounds good – but we ask ourselves: Will this come at the cost of transparency, quality, and fair conditions?

What is set to change?

Until now, we as suppliers had to disclose every stage of our production – no matter how big or small the order was. This costs time, money, and nerves.

Now the EU wants:

• Fewer documentation requirements – only relevant information instead of endless reports.
• Focus on high-risk countries – not every supply chain needs to be examined with the same intensity.
• “One In, One Out” rule – for every new regulation, an old one should be eliminated.
• Fewer audits – fewer spontaneous inspections, more trust in existing standards.

For us, this means: More time for quality and innovation – less struggle with bureaucracy. Sounds great, right?

What we welcome:

• Less paperwork – we can focus on what really matters again.
• Faster processes – fewer delays due to endless approvals.
• Lower costs – good for us and our customers.

But what happens then?

• Inferior materials could enter the market more easily.
• Sustainability could become an empty promise if there is no longer any control.
• Unfair competition from low-cost suppliers who save at the expense of the environment and working conditions.

For us, it’s clear: Reducing bureaucracy – yes! But not at any cost.

What does this mean for our customers?

Our customers also want less bureaucracy – but they must continue to guarantee sustainable, safe packaging.

• Flexibility increases – faster processes, simpler supplier relationships.
• Security remains crucial – because in the end, they are responsible for the product.
• Sustainability must remain genuine – fewer forms must not mean less responsibility.

In short: Less bureaucracy must not lead to lower quality!

What do you think?

As packaging suppliers, we are caught between the requirements of legislators and the expectations of our customers. Reducing bureaucracy is good – but transparency and quality must be maintained.

Is this a necessary step or a dangerous setback?
Have you personally experienced endless questionnaires and verification obligations?
How can we ensure together that less bureaucracy does not mean less responsibility?