Despite the increasing emphasis on circularity and recycling, the incorporation of recycled plastic into new products remains constrained. This study focuses on the polymer-specific circularity of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), identifying challenges and opportunities within the value chain to foster circularity in Pakistan. Through a literature review and targeted data collection spanning across the PVC value chain in the country, interactions among key actors were mapped, and key barriers and enablers were identified. Qualitative evidence highlights the economic potential of recycled PVC (r-PVC), underscored by high recycling costs and reclamation expenses for single-use PVC owing to the lack of critical infrastructure in the country. Lack of product and recycling standards, and varying recycled PVC composition, were identified by the relevant stakeholders as the most critical barriers. Technical aspects highlight the challenges posed by the unknown composition of r-PVC and the need to control market prices and product quality, while acknowledging the dual role of product design, specifications and mechanical performance. Systematic factors encompass infrastructural limitations in sorting and handling post-consumer PVC waste, but the availability of testing facilities and research and development efforts can drive progress. This study provides a nuanced exploration of the complexities of PVC circularity, offering insights into strategic interventions to advance sustainable recycling practices and circularity approaches.Despite the increasing emphasis on circularity and recycling, the incorporation of recycled plastic into new products remains constrained. This study focuses on the polymer-specific circularity of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), identifying challenges and opportunities within the value chain to foster circularity in Pakistan. Through a literature review and targeted data collection spanning across the PVC value chain in the country, interactions among key actors were mapped, and key barriers and enablers were identified. Qualitative evidence highlights the economic potential of recycled PVC (r-PVC), underscored by high recycling costs and reclamation expenses for single-use PVC owing to the lack of critical infrastructure in the country. Lack of product and recycling standards, and varying recycled PVC composition, were identified by the relevant stakeholders as the most critical barriers. Technical aspects highlight the challenges posed by the unknown composition of r-PVC and the need to control market prices and product quality, while acknowledging the dual role of product design, specifications and mechanical performance. Systematic factors encompass infrastructural limitations in sorting and handling post-consumer PVC waste, but the availability of testing facilities and research and development efforts can drive progress. This study provides a nuanced exploration of the complexities of PVC circularity, offering insights into strategic interventions to advance sustainable recycling practices and circularity approaches.