As of 2023, UK imports of paper and cardboard waste from the EU28 stood at an undisclosed benchmark figure. Forecasted data from 2024 to 2028 indicates a significant downward trend. The import volumes are expected to reduce from 30.17 thousand metric tons in 2024 to 7.55 thousand metric tons by 2028. This represents a year-on-year reduction of approximately 19% between each consecutive period. Over the five-year span, the compound annual growth rate (CAGR) is projected to be around -31%, evidencing a strong decline in intra-EU imports to the UK.
Future trends to monitor include the impact of UK recycling policies, shifts in global demand for recycled materials, and potential changes in trade relations post-Brexit that may further influence import volumes. Additionally, advancements in recycling technology could affect demand for imported waste materials.