Recycled High Density Polyethylene (r-hdpe) Price Trend and Forecast

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recycled high density polyethylene (r-hdpe) Price Trends by Country

usUnited States
deGermany
saSaudi Arabia
cnChina
inIndia

Global recycled high density polyethylene (r-hdpe) Spot Market Prices, Trend Analysis and Forecast

Price-Watch’s most active coverage of Recycled High-Density Polyethylene (R-HDPE) price assessment:

  • Light Pellets FD Hamburg, Germany
  • Natural Granules Ex-Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
  • Natural Granules Ex-Mumbai, India
  • Natural Granules FOB Shanghai, China
  • Natural Pellets Ex-Chicago, USA

Recycled High-Density Polyethylene (R-HDPE) Price Trend Q3 2025

In the third quarter of 2025, Recycled HDPE prices around the world have shown mixed performance across regions. The US R-HDPE prices saw significant reduction of 17.9% due to weak demand, over-supply, and competing demand from other regional suppliers. Saudi Arabia also saw a decline of 4.1% due to slack regional demand, both domestically and for exports, and greater competition from lower priced import material into the region.

The recycled HDPE price trend in India has dropped by 2.0%, due to stable supply domestically, combined with soft demand in the packaging and industrial sectors. On the other hand, the prices in Germany increased by 8.5%, due to stronger demand from packaging and consumer goods industries as sustainability efforts have led to an increase in product sales.

China saw an increase, albeit modest in comparison to other regions, of 1.6%, largely driven by demand from the packaging sector, and also driven by sustainability-efforts. Overall, recycled HDPE price trends have been mixed, as some regions experienced downward pressure in prices due to lower demand, yet other regions experienced modest price increases due to sustainability and recycling efforts.

USA

Recycled HDPE Domestically Traded Ex-Chicago, USA, Natural Pellets.

According to PriceWatch, in Q3 2025, the recycled HDPE price trend in the USA has declined by 17.9%, as market activity has been weakening amid soft demand and rising availability of recycled HDPE. The recycled HDPE price trend has been pressured by subdued buying sentiment, with domestic converters reducing procurement due to uncertain economic conditions.

Oversupply in the recycling market has further weighed on prices, as inventories have been accumulating across processing units. The recycled HDPE price trend has also been influenced by fluctuating feedstock costs, which have limited any potential rebound in pricing.

In September 2025, the recycled HDPE prices in the US have continued its downward trajectory with an 11.8% decline, primarily due to reduced import demand and cautious purchasing behaviour among buyers. Suppliers have been adjusting their offers to remain competitive, resulting in additional downward movement. Overall, the recycled HDPE price trend in the USA has reflected a persistently weak market sentiment throughout the quarter.

Germany

Recycled HDPE Domestically Traded prices FD Hamburg, Germany, Light Pellets.

In Q3 2025, the R-HDPE prices in Germany have increased by 8.5%, with a price range of USD 1350–1370 per metric ton. The R-HDPE price trend in Germany has benefited from increased demand from the packaging and consumer goods market sectors this is taking place as the use of sustainable materials in these industries has been growing.

The limited supply of high-quality recycled HDPE kept buyers willing to pay premiums on the limited high-quality material that was located; thus, the recycled HDPE price trend felt steady throughout Europe. Market confidence has been recovering as incentives for recycling and the circular economy resulted in increased buying activity.

In September 2025, the Recycled HDPE prices in Germany remained firm, with a modest growth of 0.3% uptick in price, as demand remained steady in the market sector. Additionally, the Recycled HDPE price trend has been supported through continued shortages of material and steady buying interest from the downstream processing sector. All-in-all, the Recycled HDPE price trend in Germany has been strong and steady throughout Q3 2025.

Saudi Arabia

Recycled HDPE Domestically Traded Ex-Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, Natural Granules.

According to PriceWatch, in the third quarter of 2025, R-HDPE prices in Saudi Arabia fell 4.1%, as lower regional demand and competitive imports from the Asian and European markets placed downward pressure on prices. Meanwhile, the R-HDPE price trend in Saudi Arabia has been altered by oversupply in the Middle Eastern market, which has challenged domestic producers to maintain margins in the face of slow export opportunities.

Stable local production has remained within limited end-use demand, which has sustained the recycled HDPE price trend for the quarter. Following typical seasonal demand slowdowns in September 2025 for packaging consumption, R-HDPE prices in Saudi Arabia further decreased 4.6% month over month as export activity declined.

Additionally, the R-HDPE price trend reflected ongoing adjustments from market sources to remain competitive in key destination markets after price reductions in Q2-2025. Overall, the R-HDPE price trend in Saudi Arabia has been softness from weaker trade activity, along with lower regional demand, which has remained a weight on market sentiment.

India

Recycled HDPE Export prices Domestically Traded, India, Natural Granules.

According to PriceWatch, in Q3 2025, the R-HDPE prices in India have declined by 2.0%, as demand from packaging and industrial sectors has been slowing. The R-HDPE price trend in India has been impacted by stable domestic supply and the availability of competitively priced imported materials, which have limited price increases.

Market sentiment has remained cautious, with buyers delaying procurement and maintaining minimal inventory levels. The recycled HDPE price trend has reflected this weak demand environment, as sellers have faced resistance in raising offers.

In September 2025, the R-HDPE prices in India have shown a slight decline of 0.3%, attributed to seasonal slowdowns in the packaging and consumer goods industries. The R-HDPE price trend has continued to remain soft, as producers have been reducing prices to stimulate buying interest. Overall, the R-HDPE price trend in India has demonstrated steady weakness through Q3 2025.

China

Recycled HDPE Export prices FOB Shanghai, China, Natural Granules.

According to PriceWatch, in Q3 2025, the R-HDPE prices in China have increased by 1.6%, supported by stronger demand from packaging and sustainability-focused sectors. The R-HDPE price trend in China has been driven by improved downstream interest and stable production levels, as buyers have shown growing preference for recycled materials.

Market sentiment has been improving as environmental initiatives have encouraged wider R-HDPE adoption across industrial applications. The R-HDPE price trend has also benefited from consistent export activity, particularly to Southeast Asian markets.

In September 2025, the recycled HDPE prices in China have continued its upward trajectory with a 0.8% increase, supported by healthy international demand and relatively tight domestic supply. Buyers have maintained steady procurement levels, contributing to a balanced market condition. Overall, the R-HDPE price trend in China has shown resilience through Q3 2025, with sustainability-driven demand keeping prices firm.

Recycled High Density Polyethylene (R-HDPE) Price Trend Analysis: Q2 2025

According to the PriceWatch, the U.S. R-HDPE Natural Pellets market experienced a significant 19% increase in prices during Q2, 2025. The average price for the quarter was recorded at USD 3230 per metric ton. This sharp rise was primarily driven by strong demand from the packaging and construction sectors, which rely heavily on recycled HDPE for sustainable applications.

Additionally, limited availability of high-quality post-consumer bales, essential for R-HDPE production, contributed to the upward pressure on prices. The tightening supply of these bales, coupled with increased collection costs and logistical challenges, further supported the bullish trend in the U.S. R-HDPE market. As demand remains robust and supply constraints persist, this upward price trajectory is expected to continue in the near term. 

According to the PriceWatch, the Indian R-HDPE Natural Pellets market experienced an approximate 2.4% increase in prices during Q2, 2025. The average price for the quarter was recorded at USD 937 per metric ton. This price increase was primarily driven by a rise in demand from the packaging and construction sectors, which rely heavily on recycled HDPE for various applications. Additionally, tighter supply conditions and limited availability of high-quality post-consumer bales contributed to upward pressure on prices.

The strengthening of the Indian Rupee against the US Dollar also helped stabilize import costs, further supporting the price increase. Seasonal demand for packaging materials, particularly ahead of festive periods and increased agricultural activities, further boosted the R-HDPE market.

The Indian R-HDPE market is experiencing this gradual price growth, and this trend is expected to continue in the near term as demand remains solid and external factors exert upward pressure on prices. 

Throughout Q1 2025, the R-HDPE market showed mixed dynamics across different grades. R-HDPE Natural Pellet prices continued their upward momentum, rising by 17.2% from the previous quarter to USD 2640/MT, driven by strong demand recovery and limited bale availability. R-HDPE Light Pellet prices slipped slightly by 0.6% to USD 1254/MT as converters remained cautious.

R-HDPE Natural Grade Flakes posted a marginal rise of 0.4% to USD 794/MT, indicating stable recycling activity, while R-HDPE Natural Grades recorded a 3.5% decline to USD 913/MT amid weaker downstream consumption. Another R-HDPE Natural Grade rose by 1.4% to USD 739/MT due to selective buying from converters. 

In Q1 2025, R-HDPE Natural Grade prices declined further by 3.5% quarter-on-quarter to an average of USD 913/MT. The Indian recycled polymer market remained under pressure during this period as weak demand from end-use sectors such as household products, automotive parts, and flexible packaging industries persisted.

Additionally, the influx of cheaper imported recycled material, primarily from Southeast Asian suppliers, created extra competition for domestic recyclers, exerting downward pressure on local R-HDPE prices. Buyers continued to adopt cautious purchasing behaviour, focusing only on immediate needs due to unclear demand visibility. 

Recycled High Density Polyethylene (R-HDPE) Price Trend Analysis: Q4 2024

During Q4 2024, R-HDPE market prices exhibited a firm-to-soft trend across segments. R-HDPE Natural Pellet prices jumped sharply by 17.6% to USD 2253/MT, supported by tightening supply and resilient export orders. R-HDPE Light Pellet prices fell by 4.7% to USD 1262/MT as seasonal demand weakened.

R-HDPE Natural Grade Flakes posted a slight increase of 0.8% to USD 791/MT, while other R-HDPE Natural Grades fell by 2.4% and 1.2% respectively, reflecting a cautious approach from recyclers and end-users toward the end of the year. 

Throughout Q4 2024, R-HDPE Natural Grade prices slipped by 2.4% to an average of USD 946/MT. The market witnessed soft buying interest amid economic slowdown concerns and tight liquidity in the system, especially impacting small and medium-scale processors.

Furthermore, reduced exports of finished plastic goods, owing to weaker overseas orders, led to lower domestic resin consumption. Indian recyclers also faced difficulty in adjusting production costs with shrinking margins, which prevented any major rebound in R-HDPE prices toward the year-end. 

In Q3 2024, the R-HDPE market remained largely bullish across high-quality grades. R-HDPE Natural Pellet prices rose by 7.0% quarter-on-quarter to USD 1916/MT, supported by robust packaging and industrial sector demand. R-HDPE Light Pellet prices advanced by 8.7% to USD 1324/MT, driven by restocking ahead of the peak season.

However, R-HDPE Natural Grade Flakes dropped by 1.8% to USD 785/MT as recycling facility output increased. Other R-HDPE Natural Grades posted declines of 2.9% and 3.4%, indicating softer buying interest in some applications. 

In Q3 2024, R-HDPE Natural Grade prices fell by 2.9% from the previous quarter to around USD 969/MT. Seasonal slowdown during the monsoon months affected industrial activities across many regions in India, leading to weaker offtake from processors.

The availability of ample raw material supply, particularly post-consumer plastic waste, kept the feedstock costs relatively stable, but limited consumption from packaging, agricultural film, and molding industries pulled prices lower. 

In the second quarter of 2024, the R-HDPE market in North America experienced a price rise of around 7%, primarily fuelled by increased demand from the packaging sector. This surge was bolstered by the seasonal uptick in consumer goods and packaging requirements during the summer months.

At the same time, Germany’s R-HDPE market saw price increases driven by supply limitations, higher production costs, and robust demand across multiple industries. Additionally, rising freight rates resulting from the Red Sea crisis further influenced global R-HDPE prices, reinforcing the upward trend. 

Throughout Q2 2024, Indian R-HDPE Natural Grade prices experienced a moderate increase 3.5% on quarterly basis to reach USD 998/MT. The post-festival replenishment cycle in India led to a slight improvement in the demand for recycled plastic grades.

Moreover, tightening government regulations encouraging higher usage of recycled plastics, especially in non-food contact applications, provided some support to the R-HDPE market. In Q2 2024, the R-HDPE market witnessed a price increase of approximately 7% in North America, driven by heightened demand from the packaging industry. 

During Quarter 1 2024, the US R-HDPE market observed a bearish trend, with prices for Recycled High-Density Polyethylene (R-HDPE) Natural Pellets FOB Chicago dropping by approximately 6.5%. This decrease was driven by reduced demand from major downstream sectors, including film, textiles, and bottle manufacturing.

Market participants remained cautious, with muted spot market trading reflecting uncertainty in consumption trends. The continued abundance of global supply, coupled with sluggish demand, maintained downward pressure on prices throughout this period. 

In Q1 2024, R-HDPE Natural Grade prices registered a strong gain of 4.6% quarter-on-quarter, averaging around USD 964/MT. Demand from sectors like blow-molded containers, pipes, and industrial packaging rebounded after the year-end slowdown.

Moreover, some logistic bottlenecks during the initial months of 2024, partly linked to disruptions in global shipping routes (like the Red Sea crisis), temporarily impacted the supply of imported recycled polymers into India. This supported local R-HDPE prices during the quarter, although the situation gradually eased by the end of March 2024. 

Technical Specifications of Recycled High Density Polyethylene (r-hdpe) Price Trends

Product Description

Recycled High-Density Polyethylene (R-HDPE) is a sustainable material made by reprocessing used HDPE products such as plastic bottles and containers. It retains the durability, strength, and chemical resistance of virgin HDPE, making it ideal for applications like packaging, pipes, automotive parts, and household items. R-HDPE plays a crucial role in reducing plastic waste and promoting recycling, contributing to a more sustainable and circular economy. It offers a cost-effective alternative to virgin HDPE, providing high performance while lowering environmental impact and supporting eco-friendly manufacturing practices.

Identifiers and Classification:

  • CAS No: 9002-88-4
  • HS Code: 39012000


Recycled High-Density Polyethylene (R-HDPE) Synonyms:

  • Recycled HDPE
  • rHDPE
  • Recycled Polyethylene
  • Post-Consumer Recycled HDPE
  • Reprocessed HDPE


Recycled High-Density Polyethylene (R-HDPE) Grades Specific Price Assessment:

  • Light Pellets
  • Natural Granules
  • Natural Pellets


Recycled High-Density Polyethylene (R-HDPE) Global Trade and Shipment Terms

  • Quotation Terms (Product & Country Specific): 25-28 MT
  • Packaging Type (Product & Country Specific): 25 Kg Bag


Incoterms Referenced in R-HDPE Price Reporting

Shipping Term  Location  Definition 
Ex-Chicago  Chicago, USA  R-HDPE Domestically traded price in USA 
FOB Shanghai  Shanghai, China  R- HDPE Export price from China 
Ex-Mumbai  Mumbai, India  R-HDPE Domestically traded price in Mumbai 
Ex-Jeddah  Jeddah, Saudi Arabia  R-HDPE Domestically traded price in Saudi Arabia 
FD Hamburg  Hamburg, Germany  R-HDPE Domestically traded price in Germany 

*Quotation Terms refers to the quantity range specified for the R-HDPE being quoted or offered in a commercial transaction.

**Packaging Type refers to standard packaging size commonly used for R-HDPE packing, ease of handling, transportation, and storage in industrial and commercial applications.

Key Recycled High-Density Polyethylene (R-HDPE) Manufacturers

Manufacturer 
Shakti Plastic Industries 
Srichakra Polyplast Pvt Ltd 
Indorama 
ALPLA Group 
MBA Polymers 
Jiangsu Ceville 
Samah Plastic Industries Factory 
ENF Recycling Directory 
NUTECAMERICA 
Glpolygel 
Rowad Plastic 
Jawaharandira 
Veolia Huafei 
Beijing Ou Yuan Sheng Fa Plastic Products Co., Ltd 
Steinbeis PolyVert GmbH 
Envision Plastics 
KW Plastics 

Recycled High Density Polyethylene (r-hdpe) Industrial Applications

R-HDPE market share end use

Historically, several events have caused significant fluctuations in Recycled High Density Polyethylene (r-hdpe) prices

  • Ongoing Sustainability Commitments & Circular Economy Focus (2024): The push for a circular economy and increasing commitments to sustainability continue to drive demand for recycled materials, including R-HDPE. Companies are adhering to strict sustainability targets, increasing the use of recycled content in products across industries such as packaging, automotive, and consumer goods. 
  • Ongoing Supply Chain Challenges & Inflationary Pressures (2021-2023): Global supply chain disruptions, including the energy crisis sparked by geopolitical tensions and inflationary pressures, continued to affect the availability and cost of recycled plastics. The Russia-Ukraine war (2022) resulted in higher energy costs and limited access to raw materials. 
  • Surge in Demand for Recycled Plastics Due to EPR Programs (2022): Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) schemes were becoming more widely implemented in various countries, including the EU and parts of North America. These programs require producers to take responsibility for the entire lifecycle of their packaging, including collection and recycling. 
  • Impact of COVID-19 on Recycling Systems and Plastic Demand (2021): The COVID-19 pandemic continued to disrupt global recycling infrastructure well into 2021. While the demand for single-use plastic packaging surged during the pandemic (due to increased online shopping, food delivery, and medical supplies), recycling systems were still recovering from the initial shutdowns. 

Why PriceWatch?

PriceWatch is your trusted resource for tracking global recycled high density polyethylene (r-hdpe) price trends. Our platform delivers real-time data and expert analysis, offering deep insights into the key factors driving price fluctuations in the recycled high density polyethylene (r-hdpe) market. By monitoring critical events such as geopolitical tensions, supply chain disruptions, and economic shifts, PriceWatch keeps you fully informed of market dynamics.

In addition, PriceWatch provides detailed forecasts and updates on production capacities, enabling you to anticipate market changes and make well-informed decisions. With PriceWatch, you gain a competitive edge in understanding all the elements that influence recycled high density polyethylene (r-hdpe) prices worldwide. Stay ahead of the curve with PriceWatch’s reliable, accurate, and timely recycled high density polyethylene (r-hdpe) market data.

Track PriceWatch's recycled high density polyethylene (r-hdpe) price assessment on a weekly basis since 2015 onwards, along with short-term forecasts, and get access to the detailed report in a downloadable format.

Data Collection and Sources​

  • Real-Time Market Data: PriceWatch aggregates real-time pricing data from a diverse range of sources, including global commodity exchanges, industry reports, and proprietary databases. This ensures that our assessments reflect the most current market conditions. 
  • On-the-Ground Intelligence: Our team gathers insights directly from key market participants, including producers, suppliers, traders, and end-users, across major R-HDPE production hubs. This ground-level intelligence is crucial for understanding localized market dynamics. 
  • Supply Chain Monitoring: We track the entire R-HDPE supply chain, from raw material availability to production and distribution channels. This includes monitoring feedstock prices, production capacities, and transportation logistics.

Event Tracking and Impact Analysis​

  • Geopolitical Tensions: PriceWatch continuously monitors global geopolitical developments, such as conflicts or trade disputes, which can significantly impact R-HDPE prices. Our analysis includes potential disruptions to supply chains and their immediate and long-term effects on pricing. 
  • Natural Disasters and Climate Events: We assess the impact of natural disasters, such as hurricanes or winter storms, on R-HDPE production facilities, particularly in vulnerable regions like the U.S. Gulf Coast. These events are factored into our price forecasts and supply outlooks. 
  • Economic Shifts: PriceWatch evaluates macroeconomic trends, including global economic growth, inflation rates, and sector-specific demand (e.g., construction, packaging), to predict shifts in R-HDPE demand and corresponding price movements. 

Production Capacity and Supply Analysis

  • Current Production Monitoring: We maintain a comprehensive database of global R-HDPE production facilities, tracking their operational status, maintenance schedules, and output levels. This allows us to assess current supply availability accurately. 
  • Future Capacity Projections: Our research includes detailed forecasts of upcoming R-HDPE production capacities, factoring in new plant constructions, expansions, and technological advancements. This helps in predicting future supply trends and potential price stabilization. 

Demand Forecasting

  • Sectoral Demand Analysis: PriceWatch provides in-depth analysis of demand trends across key sectors, including packaging, automotive, and construction. We track year-on-year demand growth and project future consumption patterns based on economic indicators and industry developments. 
  • Global Demand Dynamics: Our methodology considers regional demand variations and how they influence global R-HDPE pricing. This includes understanding the impact of shifts in manufacturing bases, trade policies, and environmental regulations. 

Pricing Model Development

  • Dynamic Pricing Models: PriceWatch utilizes advanced econometric models to forecast R-HDPE prices, incorporating real-time data, historical trends, and projected market conditions. Our models are continuously refined to enhance accuracy and predictive power. 
  • Scenario Analysis: We conduct scenario-based assessments to evaluate potential future market conditions. This includes best-case, worst-case, and most likely scenarios, helping our clients prepare for a range of market outcomes.

Reporting and Client Support

  • Comprehensive Reports: Our clients receive detailed reports that include current price assessments, future price forecasts, and in-depth analysis of market drivers. These reports are designed to be actionable, providing clear insights and recommendations. 
  • Ongoing Support: PriceWatch offers continuous updates and personalized support to our clients, ensuring they have the most up-to-date information to make informed decisions. Our experts are available to discuss specific market developments and provide tailored advice. 

This research methodology ensures that PriceWatch delivers the most accurate, timely, and actionable R-HDPE pricing assessments, helping our clients stay ahead of market trends and make informed business decisions. 

Recycled High Density Polyethylene (r-hdpe) Market Price Trend provided by PriceWatch is a base price and excludes VAT/Taxes, discounts, or offers. The information herein is accurate to the best of our knowledge as of the date indicated and is provided solely for the convenience of our customers as a reference for recycled high density polyethylene (r-hdpe). PriceWatch disclaims any warranties or representations regarding the accuracy of results derived from this information. It is the sole responsibility of the user to assess the suitability of the product for their specific application. This document does not constitute an endorsement to use the product in violation of any applicable patent rights.

The price of R-HDPE is shaped by supply and demand, raw material costs, and recycling efficiency. Limited availability of post-consumer and post-industrial HDPE waste, coupled with fluctuating demand, causes price volatility. The cost of virgin HDPE and feedstocks like crude oil impacts competitiveness between recycled and virgin resins. Processing and logistics costs, including energy and transportation, further influence pricing. Additionally, high-quality recycled grades command premium prices, while environmental regulations encouraging plastic recycling boost demand and prices. Market disruptions, such as geopolitical events or natural disasters, can also affect R-HDPE costs by impacting supply chains and production capacities.

Procurement managers can optimize R-HDPE costs by employing strategic approaches. Negotiating long-term contracts with recyclers ensures stable pricing and consistent supply, while diversifying suppliers enhances bargaining power and mitigates risks. Bulk purchasing often leads to discounts, and leveraging market intelligence helps managers understand pricing trends and identify the best timing for purchases. Selecting the appropriate quality grade avoids unnecessary expenses, and utilizing digital procurement platforms allows price comparison across suppliers. Additionally, fostering relationships with reliable recyclers ensures access to competitive prices and high-quality material, while actively monitoring regulatory and market changes helps anticipate cost fluctuations and adjust strategies accordingly.

Global events significantly influence R-HDPE prices by disrupting supply chains and market dynamics. Economic downturns reduce industrial demand, leading to price declines, while pandemics, like COVID-19, cause recycling plant closures and logistic disruptions, resulting in supply shortages and price hikes. Trade policies, such as tariffs or import/export bans, directly impact material availability and costs. Geopolitical tensions can raise transportation expenses and raw material prices, indirectly affecting R-HDPE. Additionally, advancements in environmental policies or global agreements on plastic waste reduction can increase demand for recycled plastics, boosting prices. Thus, global events create a ripple effect that shapes R-HDPE market trends.