Overview
- Retailers and online sellers began the legally limited three‑day sales window for category F2 fireworks, with deliveries allowed for preorders.
- Crowds lined up at midnight openings in places such as Meppen, Bremerhaven and Hamburg, while the industry forecasts 10–15% more stock than last year after reporting €197 million in 2024 turnover.
- Regulators increased oversight, with the Regierungspräsidium Kassel conducting on‑site checks using AI software to verify proper CE and BAM labeling and compliance, and customs reiterating warnings on illegal imports.
- Cities tightened local rules: Berlin maintained four no‑fireworks zones and time limits, and Wolfratshausen widened its ban area with fines of up to €5,000 for violations.
- Calls for curbs intensified from medical, environmental and police groups citing injuries and strain on responders, while a TÜV survey found about 22% plan private fireworks and roughly 74% intend to abstain.