China Outlines Reforms to Modernise Packaging Waste Systems

China unveiled a national action plan to strengthen solid waste management, including reforms impacting packaging waste systems, recycling infrastructure, and the circular economy. Issued by the State Council and published by local authorities, the framework sets targets through 2030 for waste reduction, resource efficiency, and higher recycling rates. For international packaging businesses, the plan signals tighter oversight of packaging waste, stronger resource recovery, and expectations for recycled content and material efficiency in the world's second-largest economy. The action plan establishes quantitative goals to increase comprehensive utilisation of bulk industrial solid waste and expand recycling of key renewable resources. Packaging materials like plastics, paperboard, and metals fall within its scope, with calls for source reduction, improved sorting and collection, and standardised treatment. These measures modernise packaging waste systems, especially in urban areas with growing consumer packaging volumes. Framed within China's circular economy strategy, the reforms prioritise resource efficiency and reduced landfill use. A core focus involves expanding recycling infrastructure, improving waste classification, collection networks, and processing capacity. For packaging, this emphasises recyclability, compatibility with local systems, and recovery of secondary raw materials like recycled plastics and paper. The plan strengthens market mechanisms for resource recovery and recycled material use in manufacturing. Building on waste sorting in major cities, it links waste targets to industrial policy and environmental goals. International packaging producers, brand owners, and converters in China face a more structured regulatory environment with scrutiny on design, materials, and waste handling. The policy aligns environmental targets with industrial standards, potentially adjusting recycling obligations or reporting. As a major packaging market, China's developments influence global supply chains and sustainability strategies. The plan reinforces commitment to reducing solid waste growth and modernising recycling systems.