China tightens recycled pulp import standard from 1 October

China's revised national standard for recycled pulp takes effect on 1 October 2026, tightening raw-material controls and inspection criteria for pulp imported to feed its paper industry. The rules ban unclean inputs such as waste household and medical paper and add microorganism-elimination requirements, with customs to use the standard for import inspection and quality determination.

Why this mattersTighter specifications for imported recycled pulp could constrain supply or raise compliance costs for exporters feeding China's paper and packaging sector.

• The revised 'Recycled Pulp' national standard takes effect 1 October 2026.
• China's paper industry relies heavily on imported recycled pulp to meet raw-material demand.
• The standard strengthens raw-material control, standardises production processes and adds microorganism elimination steps.
• It bans use of unclean raw materials such as waste household paper and medical paper for recycled pulp.
• Customs will use the standard for import inspection and quality determination of recycled pulp.

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