Updated: China to allow imports of recycled PET flake, plastic pellets

The Brussels-based Bureau of International Recycling (BIR) says it has been informed that the General Administration of Customs of the People's Republic of China (GACC) will allow the import of high-grade polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottle flake as general goods without the need for a license. This table (an internal unofficial document that has not been translated into English) describes the PET bottle flakes as high grades A, B, C or D.

The GACC also will allow imports of recycled plastic pellets as general goods without the need for a license provided each batch is of the same color with a uniform particle size and shape and packaged uniformly. The shipments also must meet the relevant specification and requirements for plastic materials or products, BIR says.

The association says the Chinese Ministry of Ecology and Environment confirmed May 17 that the import of high-grade PET as ordinary goods is allowed and in accordance with general trade regulation. (Click here to view the official document.)

Materials falling under category A, B and C as defined in Textile Industry Standard of the People's Republic of China: Regenerated Polyester (PET) Bottle-Grade Chips that meet the criteria can be imported as ordinary goods without the need for a license, the BIR says. 

*This news was originally posted May 15 and updated May 18 to reflect the BIR's notice of confirmation of the information.