Report for Scandinavia

Plastics recyclers remain in a difficult situation owing to unstable markets and a fall in crude oil which has affected prices. The recycling sector has been under pressure for the last 18 months and is now faced with rising uncertainty owing to US trade policy, prompting most buyers to seek only part loads. However, there has been increased demand for polypropylene and polystyrene, with quotes slightly higher than in the earlier months of the year. Premium and good qualities are moving at the same or slightly higher price levels.

In general, orders for recycled material have been quite low. April was a slightly better month, raising hopes of greater stability. There is demand for PP and PS but availability of virgin grades is putting pressure on prices, with the result that the slight increase in demand has not been reflected as yet in prices.

Despite slightly more demand for recycled grades in the region, higher pricing will be achieved only with greater market stability over time.