Overview

• In 2023, European plastic production decreased by 8.3%, marking the first decline in recycled plastics production since 2018.
• The global plastic production rose by 3.4%, primarily driven by increases in China and the United States.
• Europe's share of global plastic production dropped from 28% in 2022 to 12% in 2023, as it became a net importer of plastic resins.
• The European plastic industry's viability is threatened by cheaper imports from regions with less stringent environmental standards.
• Despite challenges, Europe maintains the highest percentage of circular plastics, with 14.8% of its production being recycled or biosourced.