Middle East

Compared to the previous quarter, recycled plastic prices in the Middle East have generally seen slight increases owing to rising demand for sustainable materials, improved collection/recycling efforts and fluctuating virgin plastic prices. However, regional variations can exist based on local supply chains and market conditions.

There is generally a growing emphasis on sustainability and circular economy practices. While prices may vary by plastic type and region, the overall trend suggests a gradual upward movement.

Emirates Biotech will begin commercial operations in early 2025 and intends to start construction of its first PLA production plant in the UAE before 2026. And in a plastic waste management project launched in Saudi Arabia, a joint venture involving SIRC aims to process 3 million tonnes of municipal solid waste per year - 35% of which will be converted into sustainable substitute fuels and 14% will be recycled.

On a global basis, a lot of work continues to go into scaling up chemical recycling as complementary to mechanical recycling in the drive towards circularity in the plastics industry. The aim of directing plastics away from landfill aligns with the targets set out in Middle Eastern countries’ plans.

Developments are being supported by polymer producers’ need to offer products compatible with voluntary targets and impending legislative requirements on their customers.