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Recycling
EU–India trade deal opens markets for pulp, paper, board and recovered paper
Date: January 30, 2026
Source: EUWID Pulp and Paper
A newly signed EU–India free trade agreement will phase out tariffs on more than 90 percent of traded goods, significantly improving market access for pulp, paper, board, and recovered fibre. The agreement is expected to boost bilateral trade flows, reduce cost barriers for exporters, and create new opportunities for fibre‑based packaging producers operating in both regions.
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International Recycling
Paper packaging recycling standardization moves up the EU agenda
Date: January 29, 2026
Source: CEPI / Recycling International
The Confederation of European Paper Industries reported new progress toward harmonised recycling standards for paper and board packaging across the EU. The update highlighted rising recycling rates, accelerated shifts from plastics to fibre‑based formats, and ongoing regulatory alignment efforts supporting circular‑economy objectives. The European paper packaging recycling rate now stands near 87 percent, exceeding long‑term EU targets.
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Containerboard
OCC Prices January 2026: Market Stability Overview
Date: January 26, 2026
Source: Fastmarkets
U.S. recovered fibre prices held steady throughout January as major containerboard producers increased OCC purchases ahead of expected seasonal slowdowns in February. Sellers reported firm pricing and stable demand, with mills maintaining healthy inventories. The market’s consistency contrasts with the volatility seen in 2025 and may signal a more predictable pricing environment for early 2026.
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Recovered Paper Markets
Recovered paper traders report lukewarm market
Date: January 28, 2026
Source: BIR / Recycling International
Recovered paper traders noted uneven global demand in late January, with Asian import activity continuing but domestic mill demand in China and Southeast Asia remaining weak. U.S. market commentary pointed to the lingering effects of 2025 mill closures, which removed an estimated 4 million tons of annual capacity and contributed to depressed pricing for OCC and mixed paper. Some traders believe prices may have reached a floor, though visibility remains limited.
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Did you know?
Modern composite cans can achieve oxygen‑ and moisture‑barrier performance comparable to rigid plastic containers by combining precision‑wound paperboard with advanced foil or polymer liners. These multi‑layer structures protect dry foods, snacks, powders, and beverage mixes while using significantly less plastic overall. Many converters now design hybrid barrier systems that maintain shelf life requirements while increasing the paperboard share of the package, supporting brand sustainability goals and reducing material costs.
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