Imports of recycle polyethylene, polypropylene, PVC and PET all fell in November to volumes at or near record monthly lows for the 2013-2017 period. Imports of smaller volumes of recycle polystyrene remained above last year’s levels.  

Imports of recycle PE, PP, PS, PVC and PET totaled 5.6 million tons through November 2017, down 15%. Further declines are likely in December.

Comparing imports in November 2017 with the highest monthly volume seen over the 2013-2017 period: R-PE, 78,000 tons vs. 400,000 tons; R-PP, 47,000 tons vs. 175,000 tons; R-PS, 11,000 tons vs. 27,000 tons; R-PVC, 12,000 tons vs. 60,000 tons; R-PET, 91,000 tons vs. 275,000 tons.

From International Trader Publications’ China Polymer Trade Report – an on line analysis of China’s imports and exports of virgin commodity polymers, recycle polymers and fabricated plastic products.