The Digital Product Passport and Upcoming Obligations for Manufacturers – What You Need to Know by the End of 2025
The introduction of the Digital Product Passport (DPP) is a key step in the European Union’s transition toward a more transparent and sustainable economy. In light of tightening regulations and the growing demand for product transparency, manufacturers, distributors, and all supply chain actors must act promptly to adapt to the new rules.
What is the Digital Product Passport?
The Digital Product Passport is a structured digital record that contains essential information about a product—its composition, origin, maintenance instructions, repairability, recyclability, and disposal. The DPP is designed to provide consumers, businesses, and authorities with easy access to reliable, up-to-date product data. This transparency encourages sustainable behavior, reduces greenwashing, and supports the EU Green Deal goals and circular economy initiatives.
Key Dates and Obligations by the End of 2025
April 9, 2025: The European Commission launched a public consultation on the future DPP system. The consultation focuses on how product data will be stored and managed, as well as the potential need for a certification scheme for service providers. Learn more and participate here:
Commission launches consultation on the Digital Product Passport (EN)Who can participate?
The consultation is open to all interested stakeholders, including manufacturers, trade associations, digital service providers, NGOs, and individuals. You can participate by completing an online questionnaire via the “Have Your Say” portal:
Have Your Say – Digital Product Passport Service ProvidersJuly 1, 2025: The consultation closes. Feedback received will help shape the operational design of the DPP system.
By the end of 2025: The publication of technical specifications and guidelines is expected, including standards for data structure, interoperability, and security. These guidelines will form the basis for implementation across various sectors.
Which Sectors Are First in Line?
The DPP will be introduced gradually by sector, with the following as priority areas:
Textile industry – clothing, footwear, fashion accessories
Electronics and ICT products – such as smartphones, laptops, household appliances
Batteries – including industrial batteries and those used in electric vehicles
Construction materials and furniture – due to high environmental impact and recycling potential
Pilot projects in these sectors are already being carried out under the CIRPASS-2 initiative and will serve as models for broader implementation.
What Should Manufacturers Do Now?
Assess which of your products will be affected – Check whether the items you produce fall within the priority sectors.
Collect and structure relevant data – This includes material composition, country of origin, recyclability, repairability, disposal instructions, and more.
Implement systems for data management – Consider PIM (Product Information Management) systems, QR/NFC integration, and digital data repositories.
Coordinate with your supply chain – Ensure that all suppliers and subcontractors are capable of providing the required data.
Monitor the development of certification schemes – It is expected that DPP service providers will have to meet specific standards, which is the subject of the current public consultation.
Why Act Now?
The European Commission has made it clear that the Digital Product Passport will not be optional—it will be mandatory. Businesses that proactively prepare their internal processes and digital infrastructure will avoid penalties and disruptions, while gaining a competitive edge by offering transparent and sustainable products that meet growing consumer expectations.
Need Help?
If you’re unsure where to start or how to prepare for DPP implementation, we’re here to help. At NOS d.o.o., we have hands-on experience with deploying Digital Product Passports across various industries—from textiles to electronics—and we offer practical and technical support throughout the entire process.
Contact us at info@nos.hr and let’s find the best solution for your business.