The European Union is one of the largest global consumers of recycled paper and cardboard, driven by strong environmental regulations, high packaging demand, and advanced paper manufacturing infrastructure. As domestic collection alone cannot meet demand, many EU countries import OCC 11 and OCC 12 waste paper scrap from international suppliers, including the USA, Canada, and other regions.
This article highlights the top EU countries importing OCC waste paper, why demand remains strong, and what international suppliers should know.
Why Europe Imports OCC 11 & OCC 12 Waste Paper
OCC (Old Corrugated Carton) grades such as OCC 11 and OCC 12 are essential raw materials for:
Kraft paper production
Corrugated box manufacturing
- Packaging for food, e-commerce, and industrial goods
Although Europe has mature recycling systems, consumption of recycled fiber exceeds local supply, especially during periods of high industrial and export activity. This creates ongoing demand for imported OCC waste paper.
Key drivers include:
- EU circular economy policies
- Reduced landfill use
- High demand for sustainable packaging
- Stable quality requirements for paper mills
Germany – Europe’s Largest OCC Importer
Germany is widely regarded as the largest paper and packaging producer in Europe. Its paper mills consume massive volumes of OCC 11 and OCC 12 waste paper, both domestically sourced and imported.
Why Germany imports OCC scrap:
- Large number of kraft paper and packaging mills
- Strong export-driven manufacturing sector
- High standards for recycled fiber quality
Germany frequently imports OCC waste paper from:
- USA
- Canada
- Neighboring EU countries
France – Strong Demand from Packaging & Recycling Sector
France has a growing packaging and recycling industry supported by national sustainability targets. While domestic collection is significant, imports of OCC 11 and OCC 12 scrap remain necessary to maintain mill capacity.
Key demand factors:
- Expanding food and consumer goods packaging
- Government-backed recycling initiatives
- Stable demand for OCC waste paper for box manufacturing
Italy – High Import Dependence for Paper Mills
Italy is one of the most import-dependent OCC markets in the EU. Italian paper mills rely heavily on imported OCC waste paper for sale from international suppliers, especially during peak production cycles.
Why Italy imports OCC 11 & OCC 12:
- Limited domestic collection compared to mill demand
- Large number of independent paper producers
- Strong focus on recycled kraft and testliner
Netherlands – Europe’s Recycling & Trading Hub
The Netherlands plays a dual role as both an importer and redistribution hub for OCC waste paper. With major ports like Rotterdam, the country is a key entry point for OCC 11 and OCC 12 waste paper exports into Europe.
Key advantages:
- World-class logistics infrastructure
- Large recycling and sorting facilities
- Re-export of OCC scrap to Germany, Belgium, and France
Belgium – Strategic Import & Processing Market
Belgium’s central location and developed recycling sector make it an important OCC waste paper importing country. Many international shipments are processed locally before being supplied to nearby EU paper mills.
Belgium’s role includes:
- OCC waste paper sorting and baling
- Supplying mills in Belgium, France, and Germany
- Acting as a regional trading center
Spain – Growing OCC Import Market
Spain has seen steady growth in OCC 11 and OCC 12 imports, driven by increased packaging demand and expansion of recycling capacity.
Key factors:
- Growth in e-commerce and agricultural packaging
- Investment in recycled paper production
- Seasonal fluctuations increasing import needs
Scandinavia (Sweden, Finland, Denmark)
Scandinavian countries have advanced paper industries but still import OCC waste paper, particularly during periods of high production.
Common characteristics:
- Strong environmental standards
- High-quality requirements for OCC scrap
- Preference for clean, low-moisture OCC 11
What EU Buyers Look for in OCC Waste Paper Imports
Across Europe, buyers typically require:
- OCC 11 or OCC 12 with low prohibitives
- Moisture content below 12%
- Consistent bale quality
- Reliable long-term supply contracts
International suppliers offering wholesale OCC waste paper for export with stable volumes are highly preferred.
Opportunities for International OCC Suppliers
With ongoing demand across Europe, suppliers from the USA and other exporting regions remain well-positioned to serve EU buyers. Countries such as Germany, France, Italy, Netherlands, Belgium, and Spain continue to import OCC waste paper to sustain their recycling and packaging industries.
For exporters, success depends on:
- Competitive price per MT
- Consistent quality
- Export-ready logistics
- Clear documentation
Conclusion
Europe remains a key global destination for OCC 11 and OCC 12 waste paper scrap, with Germany, France, Italy, Netherlands, and Belgium leading imports. As sustainability goals and packaging demand continue to rise, international OCC waste paper exports to the EU are expected to remain strong.
For buyers and sellers alike, understanding regional demand trends is essential for building long-term, profitable supply relationships.
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