China is planning to implement a green standard system for courier packaging in the domestic express delivery industry by the end of 2025.

The commitment is part of a joint action plan unveiled by central economic planner the National Development and Reform Commission, the State Post Bureau, and six other state authorities, reported news agency China Daily.

It focuses on key areas, including the improvement of standardisation, as well as recycling and reducing the use of non-harmful materials for express packaging.

The plan calls for the usage of 10% of recycled express packaging for intracity deliveries by the end of 2025. This is an initial target under the plan.

In addition, the action plan expects major e-commerce companies to cut their usage of excessive packaging while increasing the reuse of cardboard boxes.

The State Council (China's cabinet) in November 2020, had already drawn measures to strengthen the green governance of express packaging in the country.

It calls for more action such as regulations, training on relevant laws, and policies for e-commerce and express delivery industry operators.

Relevant authorities are required the conduct an evaluation of this implementation by the end of 2025.