The implementation of Italy's plastic packaging tax has been postponed until 2026.

Parliament initially passed legislation to implement a tax on single-use plastic packaging during the 2020 financial year. However, it has been a contentious and complex political issue, facing resistance from the industry, which has led to its introduction being postponed seven times.

The proposed tax is expected to follow a model similar to Spain's existing plastic tax, with the rate set at €0.45 per kilogram of virgin plastic in Italy's legislation.

The tax will apply to plastic products such as bottles, bags, food containers, bubble wrap, caps, and other single-use plastic items. Recycled plastics and compostable plastics will be exempt from this tax.