We have published "Label Newspaper (No. 1363) May 1, 2026."
■ Editor's Column | How to read this issue
Front Page Top Story: Middle East Situation – Impact on Label Raw Materials Becomes Apparent
The top story on the front page covered the news that the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) announced a policy to revise ministerial ordinances concerning PET bottles under the Act on Promotion of Effective Utilization of Resources (Resource Recycling Act), with the aim of expanding label-free PET bottles, based on the headline "Considering Expansion of Label-Free PET Bottles."
Regarding the identification marks displayed on label-free PET bottles, the current ministerial ordinance requires both engraving on the bottle and printing on a label. The revision of the ordinance aims to make engraving the sole method for identification marks, thereby contributing to reducing environmental impact and promoting recycling by eliminating labels.
However, barcodes used for retail product management and product content displays required by other laws such as the Food Labeling Act are not included in the scope of the revision. Therefore, bottles with only engravings are expected to target sales in vending machines.
The article also includes interviews with METI and beverage manufacturers, and describes how demand for labels will shift due to the revision.
Other Main News
1. Waseda University Graduate School "Profiles of Label Forum Japan Speakers: Optimizing Label Manufacturing and Supply"
2. Middle East Situation "Continued Impact on Raw Material Procurement, Price Revisions for Label-Related Materials"
3. IST METZ "High-Performance LED-UV System Launched in Japan at Prices Equivalent to Existing UV Systems"
4. New Edge "Business Now: Accelerating Growth by Adding Seals and Labels to Online Printing Services"
5. Kyushu Craft Kogyo, Matsuzaki, Manseisha Printing "Special Feature: 10 Years After the Kumamoto Earthquakes"
6. interpack 2026 "Preview 2: Numerous Labels and Materials/Equipment Supporting Circular Packaging"
7. National Subsidy System "A Management Tool for Companies: Supporting Capital Investment and Labor Saving"
