[Column] Pre-Inspection Law for Packaging Materials and Small Businesses

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Lim Chun-han] The proposal of the ‘Packaging Material Pre-Inspection Act,’ which requires all products' packaging materials to undergo prior inspection with the aim of reducing packaging waste, has caused an uproar among companies at the National Assembly. Criticism is emerging that the ruling and opposition parties, as well as the Ministry of Environment?the main government agency in charge?are pushing the bill forward without considering practical issues, effectively shackling businesses.

The Democratic Party of Korea plans to begin full discussions next month on amendments to the Act on the Promotion of Saving and Recycling Resources (Resource Recycling Act). The People Power Party also agrees with the bill’s content and is focusing on a phased and gradual introduction. Although the bill was proposed with the intention of reducing packaging waste, its core provision requires all products’ packaging materials to undergo prior inspection. Failure to undergo inspection or falsifying inspection results will result in imprisonment for up to one year or a fine of up to 10 million won.

If the bill passes in its original form, the number of companies subject to it will reach about 100,000. Industries with many product types, such as the food and cosmetics sectors, will inevitably face enormous inspection costs and delays in launching new products due to inspection periods. Small businesses, already struggling due to COVID-19, will be hit hard by increased costs.

Despite desperate cries from the field, the political circles and even the government have supported the bill. On the 17th, Minister of Environment Han Jeong-ae stated at the Environment and Labor Committee, "I agree with the purpose of the bill. It is a path we must take," adding, "It is not a path that can be taken optionally or selectively."

The government and ruling party must remember that regulation alone is not the answer and must tailor the law to reality. If the goal is truly to reduce packaging waste, there are many other methods such as banning double packaging and developing eco-friendly packaging materials. We hope the pain of small businesses that will suffer huge losses due to this law will be carefully considered.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.