Advocacy Ramps Up
As the flexible Packaging Association (FPA) enters the spring of 2026, the industry stands stronger than ever following a year of strategic advocacy that supported its growth and amplified its voice at the federal and state levels. The flexible packaging industry faces a dynamic regulatory landscape shaped by sustainability mandates, trade policies, and innovation incentives. In this environment, government affairs (GA) and advocacy are not optional activities—they are essential lifelines that protect innovation, ensure competitiveness, and promote the unparalleled benefits of flexible packaging.
Navigating Regulatory Terrain
The flexible packaging industry operates at the intersection of environmental stewardship, economic vitality, and consumer convenience. The advantages of flexible packaging—lightweight, versatile, and resource-efficient—are well known. Yet these advantages are under constant scrutiny from policymakers struggling with plastic pollution, circular economy goals, and supply chain resilience.
Without robust GA and advocacy, well-intentioned but misguided regulations can stifle progress. Consider poorly crafted extended producer responsibility (EPR) laws, which can impose financial burdens on producers without adequate infrastructure for recycling flexible films. Likewise, trade tariffs on inputs such as aluminum foil and plastic resins threaten domestic supply chains and inflate costs. FPA’s proactive advocacy is instrumental in educating lawmakers on these nuances, ensuring policies reflect science and practicality rather than headlines.
Additionally, advocacy fosters opportunity. By championing bills such as the Strategies To Eliminate Waste and Accelerate Recycling Development, or STEWARD, Act, the Recycling and Composting Accountability Act, and the Recycling Infrastructure and Accessibility Act, FPA positions the flexible packaging industry as a sustainability leader. Legislation like these measures results in policies that not only mitigate risks but propel innovation.
FPA’s Integrated Advocacy Strategy
FPA’s GA success comes from a broad advocacy framework, refined over decades and strengthened in recent years. At its core is the newly launched Government Affairs Committee (GAC), established in 2025 to streamline engagement at the federal and state levels. Chaired by industry veterans, the GAC coordinates lobbying efforts, monitors legislation, and mobilizes members for grassroots campaigns. Complementing this is FlexPAC®, FPA’s political action committee. Started in 2024, it supports pro-industry candidates and amplifies the industry’s impact.
Legislative engagement drives this strategy. The annual FPA FlexFly-In brings members to Capitol Hill for face-to-face meetings with lawmakers and their staff. In 2025, participating FPA members met with nearly 50 congressional offices. The team advocated common sense tax and tariff policies, viable circularity solutions for all packaging types, and harmonization of labeling requirements for recyclability and compostability.
FPA’s Emerging Leadership Council (ELC) also supports the association’s advocacy efforts. (See related column on page 6). Additionally, a new Tariff Working Group was formed in 2025 amid volatile global markets. It provides real-time intelligence on trade actions, helping companies to adapt more swiftly.
Coalition Building
FPA demonstrates collaborative leadership in federal advocacy by engaging with a broad range of coalitions to strengthen the industry’s voice as policy landscapes evolve. Through strategic alliances with organizations such as the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM), FPA champions pro-growth initiatives, including tax reform and fair-trade policies. Similarly, as part of the Tariff Relief Coalition, FPA counters unfair trade practices by mobilizing bipartisan support to stabilize supply chains. FPA is also deeply engaged with the PACK Act Coalition to secure passage of federal legislation to establish uniform labeling standards for recyclable, compostable, and usable packaging claims.
This comprehensive coalition strategy underscores FPA’s commitment to coordinated efforts, enabling the organization to turn emerging challenges into opportunities for sustainable growth and stronger industry resilience.
Engagement Equals Empowerment
The stakes for 2026 are even higher. With midterm Congressional elections looming, trade policy volatility, and evolving U.S. Environmental Protection Agency guidelines on many issues, proactive GA is paramount.
Participation by FPA member companies is essential. With assistance from FPA, individuals can host elected officials at their facilities, sponsor legislator roundtables, and comment on proposed rules. At FPA’s 2026 Annual Meeting and FlexForward® Conference, members can attend and engage in government relations panels and sessions highlighting engagement opportunities.
By investing in these efforts—through dues, building a strong FlexPAC®, or participating in events—members exponentially amplify their influence.
