Di Yi Cai Jing·2025-08-21 08:01Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the challenges and issues surrounding the import of recycled pulp in China following the ban on solid waste imports, highlighting the need for stricter regulations and standards to prevent environmental hazards and ensure product quality [1][7][12]. Group 1: Import Ban and Market Changes - Since January 1, 2021, China has banned the import of solid waste, including waste paper, leading to a significant increase in the import of recycled pulp, which rose from 300,000 tons in 2018 to 3.36 million tons in 2022, an increase of 11 times [2]. - Major paper companies such as Nine Dragons Paper, Shanying International, and Sun Paper have invested in overseas recycled pulp projects to adapt to the new regulations [2]. Group 2: Quality and Safety Concerns - There are significant quality issues with imported recycled pulp, particularly with dry-ground pulp, which often contains high levels of impurities and bacteria, posing health risks [10][11]. - The new national standard for recycled pulp, effective November 27, 2023, aims to set technical requirements and prevent the entry of "foreign garbage" into the country, but it is currently a recommended standard rather than mandatory [7][12]. Group 3: Environmental and Economic Implications - The production of recycled pulp, especially through dry grinding, is associated with high energy consumption and environmental pollution, as it requires additional processing in China after import [10][11]. - Experts suggest that the government should enhance the standards for imported dry-ground recycled pulp and implement strict inspections to ensure compliance with quality and environmental safety [12][15]. Group 4: Industry Recommendations - Industry insiders have called for the establishment of a mandatory national standard for imported recycled pulp, emphasizing the need for rigorous quality control and environmental assessments [12][15]. - There is a push for increased support for domestic paper companies that comply with environmental regulations and for those investing in overseas recycled pulp projects to improve their technological capabilities [16].