HS Code:
The category 'Pulps of fibers derived from recovered (waste and scrap) paper or paperboard or of other fibrous cellulosic material' (HS Code: 4706) includes pulps made from recycled paper, paperboard, or other cellulosic materials such as cotton linters or bagasse. These materials are critical in the paper and packaging industries, supporting sustainable practices by reducing the demand for virgin wood pulp. This category is a key component of the circular economy, as it promotes recycling and waste reduction while serving as raw material for producing paper products, tissue, and packaging materials.
Total Trade Volume
USD 2.5 billion
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database
USD 600 million
24% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 400 million
16% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 350 million
14% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 250 million
10% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 200 million
8% of total trade of total trade
Decreasing
Average Rate
3.5%
Highest Rate
8% (applied by certain developing countries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU internal trade or USMCA)
Growing demand for sustainable packaging solutions
Increased trade volume as industries shift towards eco-friendly materials, boosting demand for recycled pulp in packaging and tissue production.
2021-2023
Technological advancements in recycling processes
Improved quality of recycled pulp has expanded its applications, leading to higher export potential for countries with advanced recycling infrastructure.
2020-2022
Policy shifts towards circular economy
Government incentives and regulations promoting recycling have increased production and trade of recovered fiber pulps globally.
2019-2023
The European Union's Green Deal has introduced stricter regulations on recycling and sustainability, mandating higher use of recovered fibers in paper production.
January 2023
Increased intra-EU trade of recycled pulp and higher demand for imports from neighboring regions.
China's continued restrictions on solid waste imports, including scrap paper, have shifted global trade patterns, redirecting supply to other Asian countries like Thailand and Vietnam.
Mid-2021
Reduced exports to China, creating oversupply in some markets and price volatility.
Significant investments in domestic recycling facilities in the United States aim to increase the production capacity of high-quality recycled pulp.
October 2022
Potential for increased US exports and reduced reliance on imported virgin pulp in the coming years.