ETIRA reveals European enterprises
selling toxic, non-compliant Chinese toners.

ETIRA opposes the illegal and dangerous import of toners into Europe.
In a bold move to protect consumers and the environment, the European Toner and Ink Remanufacturers Association (ETIRA) has named and shamed several European businesses for selling non-compliant and toxic toners imported from China. These products pose a significant health risk and are often sold to unsuspecting consumers in Germany, France, the Czech Republic, Romania, Spain and Italy.

Despite known dangers, including toxic chemicals and poor environmental standards, some businesses continue to store and resell these harmful products. Many of the toners have been found to contain hazardous substances, making them not only a legal violation but also a public health problem.

Main findings of ETIRA compliance inspections

Between July and November 2024, ETIRA carried out a thorough review of nearly 50 non-genuine and remanufactured toner cartridges sold on European markets. The analysis covered a wide range of suppliers, including big names such as Bürobedarf, Kaut-Bullinger, Ribbex, Backhausen, HQ-Patronen GmbH, TonerPartner GmbH, „Stefan Brogno tintendienst.de“, Tonerdumping., Hispamicro, Muchocartucho, Inkcloud, Inforpor (Xerox), Linsed, Life 365 Italy, Alphaink, Ecostore, Buffetti, TS Bohemia, Mall/Allegro and Compatible cz.

Main findings of ETIRA compliance checks
One of the most disturbing revelations was the discovery of non-compliant products sold by Ribbex, a well-known supplier in Germany. The cartridges, which were sold as „Refurbished“ and „Made in Germany“, turned out to be brand new, non-original cartridges imported from South East Asia by a Portuguese distributor. This misleading labelling not only misleads consumers but also undermines the credibility of the industry.

A growing problem in European public administration

Perhaps the most worrying aspect of this issue is the role of government agencies in perpetuating the problem. Public sector agencies in Europe purchase over 1 million Chinese toner cartridges a year, contributing to the widespread distribution of these toxic, non-compliant products. This is a serious challenge for advocates pushing for change.

A decade of toxic imports

For more than a decade, lax regulations and overproduction in China have allowed toxic and non-compliant toners to flood European markets. However, the trend is beginning to change. Thanks to the efforts of organisations such as ETIRA and supportive media such as Tonernews.com, consumers are becoming more informed and businesses are gradually adapting. Exposing these illegal products raises awareness and spurs action.

There is hope that this continued push for accountability will eventually stop the import and sale of these dangerous goods, ensuring a safer and more sustainable future for the toner industry.

A call for justice

The fight is far from over, but as more businesses and consumers join the movement to expose these harmful products, the future looks brighter. With continued vigilance and cooperation, there is hope that justice will prevail and these toxic toners will be banned for good, creating a safer environment for all.