Russia to implement new ferrous scrap export quota starting 2026

• Quota applies to non-EAEU countries only
• Exports split evenly across two half-year tranches

The Russian government has approved a new tariff quota system for exporting ferrous metal scrap and waste to countries outside the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU). The decision was formalised under Government Resolution No. 2175, signed on 27 December 2025. The new regime will apply from 1 January to 31 December 2026, and it is a major regulatory change for Russia’s scrap export market.

Russia has continued to tightly regulate ferrous scrap exports, with a clearer and more structured system set to take effect from 2026.

• In 2025, the country retained its existing quota-based restrictions on ferrous scrap exports to destinations outside the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU). Under this system, exports were permitted only within government-set quotas and required licences and duties. The primary objective was to limit overseas shipments and secure adequate scrap availability for domestic steelmakers.
• From 1 January 2026, Russia will introduce a formal tariff quota system. Ferrous scrap and metal waste exports outside the EAEU will be capped at 2.2 million tonnes (mnt) for the year, with the quota split evenly between the first and second halves. Shipments within the quota will require export licences, while higher duties will apply to any volumes shipped beyond the cap.

Although the 2026 quota is larger than previous allocations, strict licensing and duty rules mean exports will remain tightly controlled. As a result, Russian scrap availability in the global market may improve slightly, but a sharp increase is unlikely.

The Ministry of Industry and Trade will oversee quota distribution, mainly based on historical export performance. Customs data covering shipments to non-EAEU countries during 2024-2025 will be used to determine each exporter’s allocation.

The total quota will be divided into two equal portions of about 1.1 mnt each, allocated for the first and second halves of 2026. Allocations will also reflect historical export routes, adjusted through regional coefficients that vary by export region.

To encourage new participants, 10,000 t of the quota have been set aside for exporters that did not ship scrap to non-EAEU countries in 2024-2025. Eligible companies must be registered before 1 January 2024 and hold valid scrap collection and processing licences. Applications for this quota must be submitted by 30 January next.

Exports under the quota will require single-use export licences, and any unused quota volumes may be redistributed if applications are not submitted within the specified timelines.

Short-term outlook: Russian ferrous scrap exports are likely to remain constrained. While the 2026 quota is larger, licensing requirements, duty risks, and controlled allocation will limit immediate export growth, keeping the global supply impact modest.