Introduction – Singapore’s Plastic Scrap Market by the Numbers
Let’s talk numbers… because numbers don’t lie.
Singapore, though small in landmass, has become a serious contender in the global plastic scrap export scene. With over 50,000 tonnes of plastic scrap exported annually, the island nation is punching well above its weight. In fact, around 93% of Singapore’s plastic waste was exported in both 2021 and 2022, making it a crucial hub in the international recycling trade.
But here’s the twist: navigating this market isn’t just about finding a supplier—it’s about finding the right supplier. And in a world filled with buzzwords and big promises, data is your best friend. That’s where platforms like Freshdi come in, offering real-time insights, supplier verification, and RFQ (Request for Quotation) trends to help businesses make smarter sourcing decisions.
Deep Dive – Key Production, Export Statistics & Current Demand Data
There’s more than meets the eye when it comes to Singapore’s plastic scrap exports.
In 2022 alone, Singapore exported 53,000 tonnes of plastic waste, with a focus on high-grade variants like PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate) and HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene). These are typically post-industrial plastics, which are cleaner and easier to recycle. The shift away from post-consumer plastics like PP (Polypropylene) and PS (Polystyrene) reflects a broader trend: quality over quantity.
Where does all this plastic go? Major export destinations include Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam, and other Southeast Asian countries. However, regional regulations are tightening, forcing exporters to be more selective and compliant.
On the demand side, Freshdi reports consistent RFQ activity for clear PET flakes and HDPE drums, indicating rising buyer interest in sorted, contamination-free scrap. These request volumes are essential indicators of what’s hot and what’s not in the market.
So what does this mean for you? If you’re sourcing plastic scrap from Singapore, following real-time market data ensures you’re always one step ahead.
Top 3 Verified Plastic Scrap Suppliers in Singapore – Proven Export Performers
Finding a reliable supplier is like finding a needle in a haystack—but we’ve done the digging for you. Based on export volume, certifications, global reach, and buyer reviews on Freshdi, here are the Top 3 Plastic Scrap Suppliers in Singapore in July 2025:
1. 2Lians Pte. Ltd.
- Specialization: PET preforms, HDPE drums, LDPE film
- Certifications: ISO 9001, SGS Inspection Reports
- Export Reach: Southeast Asia, Europe, Middle East
- Why They’re on the List: With consistent 5-star ratings on Freshdi, 2Lians is known for transparency, timely delivery, and high-quality post-industrial plastic scrap. Their PET Preform category is one of the top-performing SKUs on the platform.
2. Coming Soon – Dynamic Rankings in Play
Freshdi’s dynamic supplier leaderboard is updated monthly based on RFQs, buyer reviews, and certification updates. Watch this space for newly ranked suppliers in the coming months.
3. Coming Soon – Watch the Freshdi Board
Suppliers who consistently meet buyer expectations and maintain verified compliance are rotated into the top 3 based on quarterly performance. This ensures only active, high-performing sellers are featured.
Dynamic Ranking Note: Platforms like Freshdi offer real-time supplier rankings such as “Top Supplier of the Month” or “Quarterly Export Performer” to reflect current activity, product quality, and buyer satisfaction. These rankings help buyers identify who’s hot right now.
Market Navigation – Statistical Trends, Pricing Analysis & Export Dynamics
Let’s break down what’s really happening behind the curtains of Singapore’s plastic scrap export market.
Export Trends and Variants in Demand
Singapore’s plastic export market is shifting its focus. Instead of shipping out all types of plastic, exporters are honing in on high-value, clean plastics like:
- PET (Clear Bottles, Preforms)
- HDPE (Drums, Blow Molding Grade)
- LDPE (Film and Sheets)
Lower-value plastics like PP and PS are seeing reduced collection due to poor recyclability and contamination issues. What does this mean for buyers? Quality and consistency are now the name of the game.
Seasonal Pricing Patterns
While Singapore-specific seasonal data is limited, global trends show that plastic scrap prices fluctuate based on:
- Crude oil prices (since plastics are petroleum-based)
- Demand from major importers like China and Vietnam
- Trade policies and shipping costs
For example, when oil prices dip, virgin plastic becomes cheaper, reducing demand for recycled plastics and pushing prices down. Conversely, during peak shipping seasons (like Q4), freight surcharges can spike, impacting total costs.
Policy Shifts and Industry Impact
Regulations are reshaping the game:
- Basel Convention Compliance: Singapore now restricts the export of mixed or contaminated plastic waste. Only clean, sorted plastics can be exported legally.
- National Plastic Passport (Coming Q1 2026): This traceability system will elevate the value of domestically recycled plastics, potentially reducing export volumes.
- Regional Import Rules: Countries like Malaysia and Indonesia are tightening import rules, which affects where and how Singapore can export its scrap.
Domestic Developments: Recycling on the Rise
- New Facility Alert: UK-based Mura Technology is building a state-of-the-art 50,000-tonne recycling facility on Jurong Island. This could soon absorb a large portion of Singapore’s plastic waste.
- Declining Recycling Rates: Despite new efforts, the plastic recycling rate in Singapore dropped to just 5% in 2023, highlighting the need for better waste management strategies.
Conclusion – Leveraging Data for Informed Procurement
Singapore may be small in size, but in the world of plastic scrap exports, it’s a heavyweight.
Let’s recap the key strengths:
- Robust Export Volume: Over 50,000 tonnes annually, mostly PET and HDPE
- Global Compliance: Basel Convention-aligned and traceability-ready
- Supplier Transparency: Verified partners like 2Lians Pte. Ltd.
Now, if you’re a procurement officer or business looking to buy plastic scrap, here’s your checklist:
✅ Smart Buyer’s Checklist for Plastic Scrap Procurement in Singapore
- 🔍 Check supplier certifications (ISO, SGS, Freshdi verification)
- 📦 Prioritize post-industrial scrap (cleaner, higher resale value)
- 📈 Monitor RFQ trends on Freshdi to identify in-demand grades
- 🧾 Review supplier performance history and buyer feedback
- 💡 Stay updated on export regulations and seasonal pricing shifts
Platforms like Freshdi empower buyers by aggregating trade data, verifying supplier compliance, and offering real-time RFQ insights. It’s like having a B2B crystal ball—only better.
FAQs
1. Why is Singapore a major exporter of plastic scrap despite its small size?
Because of its advanced waste management infrastructure, strategic port location, and high industrial output, Singapore efficiently collects and exports high-grade plastic waste to regional markets.
2. What is the difference between post-industrial and post-consumer plastic scrap?
Post-industrial plastic comes from manufacturing processes—clean, uniform, and easier to recycle. Post-consumer plastic comes from used consumer goods and usually requires extensive sorting and cleaning.
3. How can I verify if a supplier in Singapore is trustworthy?
Use platforms like Freshdi which offer supplier verification, export history, certifications, and buyer reviews all in one place.
4. What are the most in-demand plastic scrap types in 2025?
PET preforms, HDPE drums, and LDPE film are among the most requested by buyers globally, reflecting their recyclability and consistent quality.
5. What impact will Singapore’s National Plastic Passport have on exports?
It will increase the traceability and value of domestically recycled plastics, potentially reducing the volume of plastic scrap available for export and pushing the market toward higher-quality, fully traceable materials.
Ready to source smarter? Let Freshdi show you the way.
