Exporting Recycled PET Pellets to the US — Sustainable Packaging Manufacturers

Recycled PET (rPET) pellets are a cornerstone of the circular economy in packaging, offering US manufacturers a way to meet sustainability targets without compromising on performance. As consumer demand for eco-friendly packaging grows and regulatory pressures mount, US companies are increasingly turning to imported rPET pellets to supplement domestic supply. This page serves as a comprehensive guide for Latin American and African suppliers looking to enter the US rPET market, and for US sustainable packaging manufacturers seeking reliable sources of high-quality recycled content.

The US is the world’s largest consumer of PET resin, with the packaging sector accounting for over 60% of total demand. In 2022, the US produced approximately 4.5 million metric tons of PET, of which only about 30% was recycled content. The Biden administration’s goal to recycle 50% of plastics by 2030 has accelerated investment in recycling infrastructure, but domestic rPET production still falls short of demand, creating a significant import opportunity.[1] Latin America, with its growing recycling rates and proximity to the US, is emerging as a key supplier region. Countries like Mexico, Brazil, and Colombia have invested in advanced washing and pelletizing technologies, producing food-grade rPET that meets US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) standards.

Product Specifications and Grades Relevant to US Buyers

Recycled PET pellets are produced from post-consumer PET bottles and containers through a process of sorting, washing, grinding, and extrusion. The quality of rPET is defined by several key parameters that US buyers prioritize. The most critical specification is intrinsic viscosity (IV), which measures the polymer’s molecular weight and determines its processability. For packaging applications, rPET typically requires an IV of 0.72–0.84 dL/g, depending on whether it will be used for bottles (higher IV) or thermoformed trays (lower IV). US buyers often specify IV values to ensure compatibility with their existing injection molding or blow molding equipment.

Color is another decisive factor. Clear or “crystal” rPET commands the highest prices and is preferred for transparent packaging, while light blue or green tints are acceptable for certain applications. Contamination levels—measured by the percentage of non-PET materials, moisture content, and acetaldehyde generation—must be kept below strict thresholds. The Association of Plastic Recyclers (APR) and the European PET Bottle Platform (EPBP) have established design guides for recyclability, but US buyers typically rely on ASTM D7611-20 for standard classification of PET resins.[2]

Food-grade certification is paramount for US sustainable packaging manufacturers who supply the food and beverage industry. The FDA issues Letters of No Objection (LNO) for rPET processes that demonstrate the ability to produce material suitable for food contact. Suppliers must provide documentation of their recycling process, including decontamination steps, to obtain this clearance. Non-food-grade rPET, often used in industrial packaging or fiber, has less stringent requirements but still must meet basic purity standards.

LATAM and Africa Supplier Landscape for Recycled PET Pellets

Latin America has become a powerhouse in rPET production, driven by strong collection systems and growing domestic demand. Mexico is the largest exporter of rPET to the US, benefiting from the US-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) tariff preferences and logistical advantages. In 2023, Mexico exported over 150,000 metric tons of rPET to the US, representing roughly 40% of total US rPET imports.[3] Major Mexican suppliers include PetStar, which operates one of the world’s largest food-grade rPET plants in Toluca, and Reciclados de Pet, which supplies both domestic and export markets.

Brazil is another significant supplier, with a well-established recycling industry that processes over 300,000 metric tons of PET annually. Brazilian rPET producers, such as Grupo Petrópolis and Unna, focus on food-grade material and have obtained FDA LNOs. The distance to the US is greater than from Mexico, but competitive pricing and high quality make Brazil a viable option for US buyers seeking diversification. Colombia and Chile are smaller but growing players, with government incentives boosting recycling rates and export capacity.

Africa’s contribution to the US rPET market is currently limited but holds potential. South Africa has the most developed recycling infrastructure on the continent, with companies like Mpact and PETCO processing post-consumer PET. However, logistical challenges and longer lead times constrain exports to the US. Other African nations, such as Kenya and Nigeria, are increasing collection rates but lack the advanced washing and pelletizing technology required for food-grade rPET. For US buyers, African suppliers may be most suitable for non-food-grade applications where price is the primary driver.

US Buyer Types — Who Buys This, How They Procure, What Specs Matter

US sustainable packaging manufacturers fall into several distinct buyer categories, each with unique procurement practices. The largest segment is the beverage industry, including companies like Coca-Cola, PepsiCo, and Nestlé Waters, which have made public commitments to increase recycled content in their bottles. These buyers typically procure rPET through long-term contracts with approved suppliers, often requiring third-party certification and rigorous quality audits. Specifications for beverage-grade rPET include IV of 0.78–0.84 dL/g, acetaldehyde content below 3 ppm, and FDA food-contact approval.

Thermoforming companies, which produce clamshells, trays, and blister packs for food and consumer goods, represent another major buyer group. They often use rPET with slightly lower IV (0.72–0.78 dL/g) and may accept colored material. Procurement is frequently done on a spot basis or through quarterly agreements, with price sensitivity being higher than for beverage applications. Key specs include consistent color, low moisture content (below 0.2%), and minimal gel formation during processing.

Non-food packaging manufacturers, such as those producing strapping, sheet, or industrial containers, are less demanding on purity but still require reliable supply. They often purchase rPET in bulk, with lead times of 4–8 weeks from Latin America. These buyers may not require FDA certification but do expect material to be free of metal contaminants and have consistent melt flow index (MFI).

Certifications and Import Requirements for Recycled PET Pellets

Exporting rPET to the US requires compliance with several regulatory and voluntary standards. The most critical is the FDA’s 21 CFR 177.1630, which governs the use of recycled plastics in food-contact articles. Suppliers must submit a Food Contact Notification (FCN) or obtain a Letter of No Objection for their specific recycling process. The process must demonstrate that the rPET is of similar quality to virgin PET and that contaminants are removed to safe levels. Many US buyers require that suppliers have an FDA LNO before entering into procurement agreements.

International standards also play a role. ISO 14021 provides guidelines for environmental claims, including recycled content labeling. Buyers may request documentation that rPET meets the definition of “post-consumer material” under this standard. Additionally, the APR’s Critical Guidance for PET Recycling provides a framework for evaluating the recyclability of packaging, which indirectly affects rPET quality expectations.

Import procedures require proper Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) classification. Recycled PET pellets are typically classified under HTS 3907.61.00 (polyethylene terephthalate, in primary forms, having a viscosity of 78 ml/g or higher) or 3907.69.00 (other). Importers must provide a certificate of analysis (COA) with each shipment, detailing IV, color, moisture content, and contamination levels. Customs may also require proof of origin under USMCA or other trade agreements to claim preferential duty rates.

Pricing and Lead Time Context

Pricing for recycled PET pellets is influenced by virgin PET resin prices, collection costs, and supply-demand dynamics in the recycling industry. As of early 2025, food-grade clear rPET pellets trade at roughly $0.55–$0.75 per pound FOB Latin American ports, with a premium of $0.10–$0.20 per pound over colored or non-food-grade material. Virgin PET resin prices have fluctuated between $0.60 and $0.85 per pound over the past year, meaning rPET often sells at a discount of 10–20%, though tighter supply can narrow this gap.[4]

Lead times from Latin America vary by origin. Mexican suppliers can deliver to US border crossings in 2–4 weeks, while shipments from Brazil or Colombia take 4–6 weeks by ocean freight. African suppliers face longer transit times of 6–10 weeks, plus additional time for inland transport to ports. US buyers typically maintain safety stock of 4–8 weeks to buffer against supply disruptions, which have become more common due to shipping container shortages and port congestion.

How Coppermont Connects Suppliers to Buyers

Coppermont bridges the gap between Latin American and African rPET suppliers and US sustainable packaging manufacturers. Our team of trade advisors has deep expertise in the recycled plastics market, helping suppliers navigate FDA certification, qualify for buyer audits, and optimize logistics. For US buyers, we provide vetted supplier profiles, sample coordination, and contract negotiation support. Whether you are a supplier looking to expand into the US market or a manufacturer seeking consistent, high-quality rPET, Coppermont offers end-to-end advisory services. Contact us today to discuss your specific needs.

Dual CTA: For suppliers: Register with Coppermont to showcase your rPET pellets to qualified US buyers. For buyers: Submit your specifications and volume requirements to receive a curated list of vetted Latin American and African suppliers.