Improved performance in 2017 / Mexico and Canada remain strongest trading partners / Plastics Industry Association report

Currency crisis stifles polymer imports / Prices soar as lira falls / Markets in calmer waters since September

Plastics industry reports good figures / Shortage of skilled workers / Sales gradually approaching record level of 2014 / Proportion of optimists doubles

Sustainability group Wrap publishes packaging reduction targets to guide "Plastics Pact" members

Polymer production rises to 11m t in 2017 / A mere 12% of plastics is recycled / Conversio study documents use of recyclate and balance of trade for first time

Numerous countries and municipalities take steps to restrict single-use plastics / Bans on plastic carrier bags and straws

Japan races to catch up on tackling marine litter / Subsidies for biodegradables producers / New Zealand to phase out plastic carrier bags

Single-trip bottle deposit extended to juices / Closing the gap to 100% recycling

Petrochemicals comeback stalls / US and Europe pull in different directions / Sanctions torpedo Western players' plans for re-engagement

Plastics industry so far manages to maintain growth / Resins consumption grows significantly again in 2018 / Trade associations call for government intervention / Appeal for stable relations with Europe

More than 50 companies sign up to use recycled plastics in packaging / Government welcomes commitments within its call for 100% circularity by 2025

Shopping bag usage at supermarkets falls 76% on bag charge / Sikinos first Greek island to ban plastic straws

Ban on single-use plastics from 2022 / “CleanSeas” campaign and clean up of historic monuments / Reports spotlight waste management successes and setbacks

More than 15,000 Chinese converting companies / Continuous growth in exports of plastic end-products / Numerous centres and schools for innovation and training / CPRJ report

Waste management plan with 2020 target proving difficult / Chamber of commerce holds waste and recycling symposium / Importance of separating secondary raw materials