Environnement et commerce associé

In 2023, global exports of non-plastic substitutes reached $485 billion, marking a slight decline from their 2022 peak of $561 billion. This mirrors the modest dip observed in global plastics trade, as demand softened across international markets.

Despite the decrease in value, trade in non-plastic substitutes continues to reflect a growing shift toward more sustainable materials. As sustainability standards tighten and consumers seek alternatives, non-plastic substitutes remain a resilient and expanding segment of international trade.

Developed economies accounted for 58% of global exports of non-plastic substitutes in 2023, while developing economies held the remaining 42%. Since 2016, exports from developing economies have grown at an average annual rate of 5.3%, reflecting their increasing participation in global markets.

Geographically, Asia and Europe lead global non-plastic substitutes exports in value terms (taking a 34% and 38% share respectively), backed by strong intra-regional trade. Africa's participation is notably small, currently under 3%.

In terms of value distribution, raw materials – primarily minerals and natural fibers derived from forestry resources as well as seaweed – account for more than two thirds of non-plastic substitutes trade.

Finished products, in comparison, only comprise the remaining one-third share, signaling a need for incentives towards more value-added activities in the sector.