BIR urges EU to reconsider recycled metal export restrictions amid trade concerns

• BIR seeks 4-week extension of EU consultation period on non-OECD metal waste exports
• BIR warns restrictions could disrupt established recycling supply chains, distort trade flows

The Bureau of International Recycling (BIR) has urged the European Commission to reconsider proposed restrictions on exports of recycled metals to major non-OECD markets and extend its consultation period by four weeks. BIR has requested that the deadline be extended to at least eight weeks, with no closure before 13 November 2026, allowing affected countries to submit additional evidence before the final list of authorised destinations is established.

Proposed restrictions raise concerns over metal trade

The European Commission’s draft waste shipment rules could exclude major non-OECD markets from EU ferrous and non-ferrous scrap exports. BIR has called for a reassessment of the proposed restrictions and their supporting evidence.

BIR warned that the restrictions could disrupt established recycling supply chains, distort trade flows and limit access to recycled metals in importing countries, while supporting environmentally sound waste management.

International markets remain important for European recyclers

European recyclers rely on international markets when domestic demand and processing capacity cannot absorb available scrap volumes and grades.

BIR warned that export restrictions could weaken scrap collection and recycling economics without boosting European demand or capacity, potentially reducing recycled material availability.

BIR seeks additional time for consultation

BIR has sought a four-week consultation extension, allowing affected countries to coordinate with authorities and submit additional evidence before the final list of authorised destinations is decided.

The request follows BIR’s 23 September 2026 statement warning that restricting international markets would not strengthen Europe’s recycling industry.

Outlook

The proposed EU waste shipment rules could reshape global recycled-metal trade flows, depending on the final list of authorised destinations. Excluding major non-OECD markets could disrupt established supply chains and weaken incentives for scrap collection and recycling in Europe. The Commission’s decision on BIR’s request for a consultation extension and the final country-specific authorisations will be key to determining the impact on European recyclers and international scrap buyers.