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| SMAP Scrap Export |
Brussels avoids export restrictions in Steel and Metals Action Plan, boosting confidence in secondary metals trade
The European Commission’s Steel and Metals Action Plan (SMAP) preserved the unrestricted export of scrap, a decision welcomed by German recyclers. Industry groups—including bvse, BDSV, VDM, and Recycling Europe—praised the move as a rational step to sustain competition and innovation in Europe’s recycling sector.
Scrap exporters feared market distortions from restrictions, which could have favored steelmakers at recyclers' expense. However, by maintaining open trade, the EU recognized the strategic role of secondary metals in both carbon neutrality and industrial competitiveness.
Trade Balance and Fair Competition at Stake
According to bvse board member Sebastian Will, more than 80% of secondary metals from German recyclers stay within the EU. Therefore, balanced market access is vital to price stability and circular economy development.
In contrast, steel producers welcomed “Buy European” incentives and CBAM enforcement. However, recyclers warned that selective protectionism, especially tariff-free imports of slabs and billets, could harm downstream processors and European consumers.
Despite differing views, stakeholders agree on the need for coherent policy. German recyclers argue that state-backed protection, without addressing global unfair practices, misplaces the burden on domestic industry.
Export Dynamics Reflect Strategic Flows
EU ferrous scrap exports fell 0.9% y/y in H1 2025, totaling 8.11 million tons. Turkey absorbed 70% of this volume, with imports up 15.3% to 5.57 million tons.
Top EU exporters included the Netherlands (1.88 Mt, +43%), Belgium (1.23 Mt, -4.4%), and Poland (630,670 t, +8.6%). These figures reinforce the EU’s global role as a key scrap supplier, and the importance of predictable export policy to long-term planning.
ScrapInsight Commentary
The EU’s decision to keep scrap exports unrestricted reinforces investor confidence in Europe’s recycling sector. While steelmakers seek protection, maintaining scrap market openness ensures pricing signals remain efficient. Any future policy must balance decarbonization goals with free-market fundamentals.
