The first report on the global trade of plastic products and articles within the EU has just been published by EuPC; the Brussels- based trade body for Europe’s plastics processors. The report entitled ‘The European Union Plastics Products and articles Tradeis devoted to an examination of the import, export and trade balance of finished plastics products in 2007.

The extensive report explores the imports and exports of industrial plastic products as well as the latest official EUROSTAT trade statistics between the EU countries, current trade relations and the major goods traded among them.

The import of EU plastic products market has increased by 20% from 2005. At the same period, the EU export in plastic products has grown by 20%. The EU trade balance is thus positive, for all the imports/exports of plastics between 2005 and 2007.

Market growth partially reflects favourable conditions within the plastic products market, along with increased imports and exports. However, growth is believed to have moderated during 2007, reflecting the high penetration of plastics, overcapacity and competitive pricing. Indeed, some businesses have been forced to relocate or source overseas.

The 90 page detailed study is now available for sale via the EuPC services company at only 250 € (e-version) and 350 € for a printed version. The order form, Executive Summary, and table of content can be obtained via EuPC services website at www.eupcservices.org