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| Aluminium Scrap |
The European Commission pivots away from a planned export duty to target non-OECD destinations with strict waste shipment bans. Internal discussions reveal that previous financial trade instruments would fail to cover half of all regional scrap outflows.
Regulatory Pivot to Waste Destination Bans
Instead, the Commission drafts a delegated act under the EU Waste Shipments Regulation to prohibit aluminium scrap exports to non-OECD countries. This regulatory shift aims to retain critical secondary raw materials within the domestic circular economy. Industry stakeholders anticipate a formal public consultation before final adoption by the end of 2026.
Industry Criticism and Alternative Demands
However, European ingot producers strongly criticize this alternative policy approach. They argue that rerouting scrap shipments through intermediary OECD nations will fail to prevent leakage to Asian markets. Therefore, secondary aluminum producers continue to demand a comprehensive erga omnes export restriction.
ScrapInsight Commentary
The strategic shift from export duties to a destination-based ban alters compliance requirements for secondary metal recyclers. Consequently, European processors face intense competition if loopholes via OECD transit countries remain open. Stakeholders must actively engage in upcoming public consultations to safeguard regional raw material availability.
