PRSE 2026: Waste Export Regulation Sparks Uncertainty for EU Recycled Plastics
The European Commission’s Waste Shipment Regulation and its potential impact on the European recycled plastics market dominated much of the delegates’ conversations in the 2026 Plastic Recycling Show Europe (PRSE) held in Amsterdam, the Netherlands, on May 5-6.
The regulation, set to enter into force on May 21, was introduced to increase European responsibility for waste materials and to reduce exports to those countries considered unable to sustainably manage waste.
Stricter controls on plastic waste exports will be implemented, with all plastic waste subject to prior notification and consent. From Nov. 21 onwards, exports of all plastic waste to non-OECD (Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development) countries will be banned.
Plastic waste material that had previously been exported outside Europe will now be forced to remain within the region, creating an excess of supply that could place downward pressure on pricing, as recyclers and traders seek to move inventory, according to sources.
As bales are the primary feedstock for recycled flakes and pellets, many participants believe any oversupply would quickly impact pricing further down the recycling chain. Several attendees expected market price weakness should inventories build faster than demand.
One market participant told OPIS that their company was keeping its recycled plastic prices unchanged, despite wider market increases, in an effort to move material out of Europe ahead of the expected glut of supply.
In contrast, another said it will raise prices in line with the market while margins allow them to do so, aiming to maximize profitability prior to the legislation entering into force.
While views differed on how severe the impact could become, the regulation has spurred uncertainty in the recycled plastics market throughout Asia, as several sources based in Southeast Asia told OPIS at the PRSE conference that the impending regulation could restrict supply within their region, resulting in higher prices as a result.
Reporting by Ellis Nicoll, enicoll@opisnet.com