In 2020, Belgium led European imports of precious metals waste from outside the EU27, holding a significant share at 62.05 metric tons. Germany followed at 18.94 metric tons, while the Netherlands exhibited substantial growth potential with 8.33 metric tons, an impressive 70.75% rise in 2023. Smaller markets like Sweden, Italy, and Lithuania showed modest imports but considerable growth, notably Estonia with a 40.97% increase. Other countries exhibited modest to declining imports. Over the last five years, the sector demonstrated consistent growth, driven by regulatory changes and increased recycling efforts.
Future trends to watch include advancements in recycling technology, regulatory shifts in waste management, and economic factors influencing metal recovery and imports. Notably, the circular economy and sustainability trends could drive increased precious metals waste imports within Europe.
Top countries in Precious Metals Waste Imports Extra-EU27 (2020) Share by Country (Metric Tons)
| # | 10 Countries | Percent | Last Year | YoY | 5-years CAGR | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 Belgium | 62.05 | 2023 | +20.52% | +5.23% | View data |
| 2 | 2 Germany | 18.94 | 2023 | +1.08% | -3.34% | View data |
| 3 | 3 Netherlands | 8.33 | 2023 | +43.69% | +70.75% | View data |
| 4 | 4 Sweden | 6.65 | 2023 | +4.85% | +2.46% | View data |
| 5 | 5 Italy | 3.41 | 2023 | +3.91% | -0.83% | View data |
| 6 | 6 Lithuania | 2.71 | 2023 | +29.17% | +12.43% | View data |
| 7 | 7 Estonia | 1.23 | 2023 | +22.4% | +40.97% | View data |
| 8 | 8 Poland | 0.73 | 2023 | +22.19% | +17.12% | View data |
| 9 | 9 France | 0.53 | 2023 | +6.56% | -0.76% | View data |
| 10 | 10 Luxembourg | 0.41 | 2023 | +20.88% | +31.88% | View data |
