EU recovered paper exports to third countries rise 14% in H1 2026

The EU's 27 member states exported around 3.1 million tonnes of recovered paper and board to non-EU countries in the first half of 2026, up 370,000 tonnes or 14 per cent year on year, according to preliminary Eurostat data. Imports fell 18 per cent to 845,000 tonnes, leaving the bloc a net exporter with a surplus of 475,000 tonnes, with India and Indonesia the fastest-growing destinations.

Why this mattersRising net exports of recovered fibre to Asia tighten domestic feedstock availability for European paper and packaging producers reliant on recycled content.

• EU exports of recovered paper to third countries reached 3.1 million tonnes in H1 2026, up 14 per cent year on year.
• The increase equates to an additional 370,000 tonnes versus H1 2025.
• EU imports of recovered paper fell 18 per cent to 845,000 tonnes in the same period.
• The EU's net export surplus of recovered paper was 475,000 tonnes in H1 2026.
• Exports to India rose 200,000 tonnes year on year to 1.1 million tonnes, making it the EU's largest export market.
• Exports to Indonesia rose around 150,000 tonnes to 535,000 tonnes, the second-largest destination.

Relevant to you? Yes No