Since the beginning of 2026, the price of conventional recyclable waste in China has risen sharply. The average market price increased by 65% year-on-year.

Corrugated cardboard, waste copper wire, aluminum cans, plastic bottles and waste batteries have increased by 300% to 400%. Tight market supply and strong demand from downstream manufacturers are the main reasons.

Rising waste prices further stimulate investment in recycling equipment. More merchants purchase semi-automatic cardboard baler to expand processing capacity and increase profit margins.