European Aluminium Calls for EU Scrap Export Limits

Aluminium Scrap

U.S. tariffs and Asian demand spark push for regional scrap retention

European Aluminium has called on the European Union to restrict aluminium scrap exports, citing growing international demand and trade shifts driven by new U.S. tariffs on primary aluminium. In 2024, the EU exported 1.5 million tonnes of aluminium scrap, with more than 500,000 tonnes going to India, underscoring a rising threat to domestic supply.

This move follows the U.S. government's 25% import tariff on primary aluminium, a policy shift that is expected to redirect American buyers toward scrap imports, thereby intensifying global competition.

Regulatory Levers: WSR and Circular Economy Act

To mitigate supply risks, European Aluminium recommends the use of export fees and amendments to the Waste Shipment Regulation (WSR). The 2023 revision of the WSR includes metal scrap under its scope, creating a legal foundation for implementing export restrictions.

The association also advocates for a new EU Circular Economy Act that would guarantee long-term scrap availability and quality, as well as the introduction of a dedicated emissions benchmark for aluminium recyclers. These initiatives aim to reinforce Europe's green transition while safeguarding industrial competitiveness.

The call is not unprecedented. Germany’s trade body, Aluminium Deutschland, has previously pushed for EU-wide restrictions to preserve domestic recycling resources.

Scrap Now Essential for Green Aluminium Strategy

Scrap has become central to Europe’s decarbonization goals. As primary aluminium producers adopt more efficient technologies, even lower-grade scrap is becoming economically viable. This trend, combined with policy and trade pressures, is fueling demand for domestic scrap.

The aluminium industry argues that without intervention, Europe risks losing a critical resource needed to meet its climate goals, sustain its circular economy, and support the low-carbon aluminium value chain.