As the world moves towards a sustainable, circular economy, the concept of "End of Waste" is fundamentally reshaping global supply chains. This principle establishes criteria for when waste materials become new products or raw materials, and transforms processed waste materials into commodities. Key materials like waste paper and scrap metal are at the forefront of this movement, with their international trade volumes creating new challenges and opportunities for logistics. A major realignment is underway: traditional import hubs are being replaced by growing markets in India and Southeast Asia, driven by evolving regulations and surging domestic demand. For businesses in the recycled resources market, understanding the drivers behind these new trade flows is essential for maintaining a competitive edge.
Trend and Forecast of Waste Paper Transport Volume by Container ships Trends
Insight 1:
Why is the global waste paper trade shifting to India & Southeast Asia?
The international waste paper market, with an annual transport volume of around 2 million TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units), is experiencing a significant geographical pivot. For years, China was the dominant importer. However, in 2017, the Chinese government implemented stringent new environmental regulations, including the "National Sword" policy, which banned the import of most waste materials, including mixed paper. This significant policy shift led global supply chains to redirect vast quantities of waste paper to new markets. (....)