Germany and the United Kingdom were the largest exporters of plastic waste from Europe in 2025 [1].

These figures highlight a surge in waste shipments as European nations move materials abroad before a pending EU ban on plastic waste exports takes effect [2].

According to data reported earlier this month, Germany sent 810,000 tonnes of plastic waste overseas in 2025 [1]. The United Kingdom followed as the second-largest exporter, shipping 675,000 tonnes during the same period [1].

These exports primarily targeted destinations in Turkey, Malaysia, and Indonesia [1, 2]. The trend reflects a broader regional pattern where European plastic waste exports reached a new high in 2025 [3].

Industry observers said the timing of these shipments suggests a rush to clear existing stockpiles. By exporting the materials now, countries can avoid the regulatory hurdles and costs associated with the upcoming ban [2].

While Germany and the UK lead the volume of shipments, the impact is felt most acutely in the receiving nations. The reliance on Turkey, Malaysia, and Indonesia for waste processing continues to be a point of international environmental concern [1].

“Germany sent 810,000 tonnes of plastic waste overseas in 2025”

The spike in exports suggests that European nations are prioritizing short-term waste removal over the development of domestic circular economies. By offloading plastic to countries like Malaysia and Indonesia before the EU ban, Germany and the UK are effectively transferring the environmental burden of their consumption to nations with different regulatory standards.