Decree Establishing Collection and Recovery Targets for Batteries and Electrical and Electronic Equipment Waste is Published 

On May 7, 2026, Supreme Decree No. 22/2025 of the Ministry of the Environment (the “Decree”) was published in the Official Gazette, establishing collection and recovery targets, together with other obligations associated with batteries and electrical and electronic equipment (“EEE”), within the framework of Law No. 20,920, which establishes the framework for waste management, extended producer responsibility and the promotion of recycling (the “EPR Law”). 

Among the most relevant aspects of the Decree are the following: 

1.- Scope of application and priority products.

The Decree applies to batteries and EEE introduced into the domestic market. For EEE, it establishes three categories: (i) temperature exchange equipment (“TEE”); (ii) photovoltaic panels (“PV panels”); and (iii) other electrical and electronic equipment. Excluded from its scope are, among others, EEE intended for national security, large-scale stationary industrial tools, means of transport, and professional-use off-road mobile machinery. 

2.- Collection and recovery targets.

The Decree establishes a progressive general target for batteries and EEE, starting at 3% in the first year and reaching 45% from the tenth year onwards. It also sets specific targets for TEE, from 6% in the third year to 30% from the ninth year onwards, and for PV panels, from 10% in the third year to 50% from the tenth year onwards. 

3.- Associated obligations and other provisions.

Retailers of batteries and/or EEE with premises exceeding 400 m² must enter into an agreement with a management system to receive such waste free of charge. The Decree also establishes limits on the presence of mercury and cadmium in batteries imported into the country. 

The Decree entered into force upon its publication in the Official Gazette. The collection and recovery targets will become effective 24 months from such publication.