The impact of China's import ban: An economic surplus analysis of markets for recyclable plastics

摘要

Over the years, China has imported a significant quantity of plastic waste from the rest of the world. In December 2017, however, it implemented a ban on the import of plastic waste, used paper, and miscellaneous scrap goods. This study aims to provide new insight on the waste trade, with specific focus on the market for recyclable plastics. By employing an economic surplus analysis, we investigate the impact of China's import ban on the market for recyclable plastics in China and Japan. Obtained results suggest a significant change in economic surpluses; Japan and China's surpluses reduced by 58 billion yen and 1,304 billion yen at the maximum, respectively.