The European Union (EU) has historically maintained a net surplus of imports of recyclable raw materials. In 2005, imports exceeded exports by more than 20 million tons. However, this trade imbalance has since narrowed considerably. Export volumes have grown by 60% since 2005, while imports have decreased by 5% during the same period, contributing to a more balanced trade dynamic in this sector. Imports were greater than exports by 10% in 2021.