As 2025 draws to a close, the Flexible Packaging Association (FPA) reflects on a pivotal year for the industry while casting an eye toward 2026. Legislative and regulatory actions at the federal level remain critical to shaping the industry’s future, and FPA continues to navigate a complex political landscape in its advocacy efforts. In 2026, FPA anticipates several key policy issues that will influence the flexible packaging industry.
Reflecting on 2025
FPA celebrated its 75th anniversary in 2025, marking decades of leadership in advocacy, sustainability, and collaboration. This milestone year saw significant engagement with federal policymakers, including testimony before the U.S. House Committee on Energy and Commerce’s Subcommittee on Environment via a hearing on Recycling Innovation and Economic Development. FPA President and CEO Dan Felton highlighted the sustainability advantages of flexible packaging and urged Congress to pass key legislation to support recycling initiatives.
Throughout the year, FPA engaged with Congress as it considered sweeping legislative packages to support pro-growth tax relief proposals to bolster industry. These efforts underscore FPA’s commitment to combating regulatory burdens and promoting the benefits of flexible packaging.
Congressional Priorities for 2026
As Congress prepares for 2026, FPA anticipates a continued focus on sustainability, recycling infrastructure, and economic policies that impact manufacturing. Several legislative priorities likely to shape the flexible packaging industry’s advocacy include:
Advancing recycling and circular economy initiatives: The push for a circular economy remains a top priority for FPA. In 2026, Congress may explore policies that enhance recycling infrastructure and address challenges in recycling plastics, including flexible packaging. FPA will continue to advocate for federal support for advanced recycling technologies, which can transform used plastics into new materials without compromising quality.
Legislation promoting national recycling standards could gain traction in 2026. FPA strongly supports key federal legislation aimed at advancing recycling and sustainability, including the STEWARD Act—the combination of the Recycling and Composting Accountability Act (RCAA) and the Recycling Infrastructure and Accessibility Act (RIAA). The RCAA enhances data collection and transparency in recycling and composting programs. The RIAA focuses on improving access to recycling infrastructure. FPA’s ongoing advocacy for these bills reflects its commitment to practical, science-based solutions that balance environmental and economic priorities.
The absence of uniform labeling standards has created confusion for consumers and recyclers alike. As such, FPA will continue to support efforts to establish clear, consistent guidelines that align with the industry’s sustainability goals. FPA hopes that the Packaging Claims and Knowledge (PACK) Act from AMERIPEN—the American Institute for Packaging and the Environment—will be enacted before the end of this Congress.
Extended producer responsibility (EPR) at the federal level: While EPR for packaging has been primarily a state-level issue, there is growing interest in federal EPR frameworks. FPA believes that poorly designed EPR programs could impose undue burdens on manufacturers. In 2026, Congress will likely continue the dialogue around federal EPR legislation, and FPA will advocate for policies that incentivize innovation in recyclable and compostable packaging while not placing undue burdens on our industry.
Tax and trade policies: These policies are pivotal to the flexible packaging industry’s ability to innovate, compete, and grow in a global market. Tax incentives, like those for research and development (R&D) and capital investments for recycling infrastructure, enable companies to adopt innovative solutions, which enhance the recyclability and performance of flexible packaging. Without such policies, manufacturers face increased costs that could stifle innovation and limit their ability to meet consumer demands for sustainable solutions.
On the trade front, the flexible packaging industry faces challenges from global market dynamics, including tariffs and supply chain disruptions. FPA supports the need for balanced trade policies that protect U.S. manufacturers while ensuring access to critical raw materials. In 2026, Congress may revisit trade agreements or tariff structures. FPA will continue to push for policies that prevent unfair trade practices, which can undercut domestic producers, while promoting fair access to global markets for exporting innovative packaging solutions.
FPA’s Role in 2026
As we look toward 2026, the flexible packaging industry stands at a crossroads of opportunity and challenge. Congressional and Administration actions on recycling, EPR, tax policies, and technological innovation will shape the industry’s future. FPA will continue to focus its advocacy efforts on engaging with lawmakers to advance policies that support sustainability, innovation, and economic growth. We encourage all FPA members to join us in these efforts.