- 24 countries apply for imports
- Approval list to be effective Nov’2026
- BIR raises concerns over recycling trade impact
The European Commission (EC) has received applications from 24 non-OECD nations, including India, Bangladesh, Egypt, Indonesia, and Vietnam, to continue importing non-hazardous waste from the EU for recovery after the Waste Shipments Regulation takes effect in May 2027.
Other applicants include Bosnia and Herzegovina, El Salvador, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Moldova, Monaco, Morocco, Nigeria, North Macedonia, Pakistan, Philippines, Saudi Arabia, Serbia, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand, Togo, Tunisia, and Ukraine. Approved waste streams cover steel and ferrous scrap, electronic waste, paper, plastics, and glass.
The EC will assess applications and finalise the list of authorised importers by November 2026.
Notably, the EU-27 exported around 1.1-1.2 mnt scrap to India in CY 2024.
Non-listed countries will be prohibited from receiving waste exports from the EU. Further applications may be considered but are not guaranteed approval in time. The list will be updated at least every two years.
The Bureau of International Recycling (BIR) has raised concerns over potential disruptions to global recycling supply chains, urging non-applicant nations to act swiftly.
BIR also emphasised its ongoing engagement with EU policymakers to address uncertainties and support recyclers affected by the new regulations.
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