August 18, 2025 - The EU Battery and Waste Battery Regulation ((EU) 2023/1542) has officially taken full effect, replacing the previous Battery Directive (2006/66/EC) that had been implemented for nearly two decades, establishing comprehensive lifecycle management for the global battery industry chain.

This new regulation, a core initiative of the European Green Deal, marks the transition from a “Directive” to a “Regulation,” directly applicable across all EU member states and unifying previously inconsistent implementation standards among countries.

01 Core Provisions of the Regulation

The new regulation covers all types of batteries, including portable batteries, automotive SLI (Starting, Lighting, and Ignition) batteries, light means of transport (LMT) batteries, industrial batteries, and electric vehicle (EV) batteries.

It introduces a stringent Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) system, requiring producers to register in each EU member state where they sell batteries and assume financial responsibility for the collection, treatment, and recycling of waste batteries.

By 2027, electric vehicle batteries, industrial batteries exceeding 2 kWh, and light means of transport (LMT) batteries must be equipped with a digital battery passport containing information on battery performance, composition, and origin.

02 Recycling and Material Reuse Targets

The regulation sets clear recycling efficiency targets: from 2025, lithium-ion battery recycling efficiency must reach at least 65%, increasing to 70% by 2030.

Regarding material recovery, from 2027, 90% of cobalt, copper, nickel, lead, and 50% of lithium must be recovered; by 2031, these rates will increase to 95% and 80%, respectively.

The EU will also restrict exports of hazardous battery waste to non-OECD countries.

03 Impact on Cross-Border E-Commerce

Platforms such as Amazon, AliExpress, Temu, and SHEIN now require sellers to upload valid “EU Battery Regulation Compliance Certificates” or registration numbers in their backends.

Sellers failing to meet these obligations risk product removal, account suspension, substantial fines, and even legal liability.

The registration and certification process takes 2-3 months, with potential delays during peak periods, urging sellers to prepare in advance.

04 Implications and Recommendations for Chinese Enterprises

As the world’s second-largest battery consumer market, the EU is a crucial export destination for Chinese companies.

The new regulation requires enterprises to establish a comprehensive compliance management system, form dedicated teams to monitor EU regulatory developments, and collaborate with professional organizations for registration and certification support.

Businesses must complete EPR registration, CE certification, carbon footprint declarations, optimize supply chain and data management, and establish recycling systems.

With the full implementation of the EU’s new battery regulation, the global battery trade landscape is being reshaped. The EU market is moving away from disordered competition and entering a new phase characterized by sustainability, transparency, and traceability.

For Chinese enterprises, this presents both challenges and opportunities. Completing registrations in advance, obtaining battery regulation certificates, and promptly uploading them to platforms are not only necessary to meet regulatory requirements but also essential for ensuring stable and continuous business operations.