European Commission delays aluminium scrap export measures amid policy shift

EUROPE – The European Commission has delayed its planned aluminium scrap export measures, withdrawing a proposed export duty in favour of restricting waste shipments to non-OECD countries under the Waste Shipment Regulation.

The Commission had initially intended to introduce restrictions in the second quarter of 2026, later shifting the timeline to September. 

The proposed export duty has now been withdrawn entirely, with the Commission instead preparing a delegated act under the Waste Shipment Regulation. 

Under the revised approach, exports of waste, including aluminium scrap, to non-OECD countries would be restricted, with certain EU candidate countries exempted. The new provisions are expected to apply from 2027.

European Aluminium Voices Frustration Over Delay

European Aluminium said the change had added to discomfort across the sector, which has been awaiting measures to address rising scrap flows out of Europe. 

The association is calling for a trade measure with wider territorial coverage and product scope. 

Paul Voss, director general of European Aluminium, said the industry was frustrated by the delay, given the scale and urgency of the problem. 

He added that the industry could support and urge the Commission to implement alternative measures quickly, stating there was no time to waste. 

European Aluminium had backed the earlier export-duty proposal but noted that political decisions to exclude current and potential EU free-trade agreement partners would have reduced the measure’s coverage, including major destinations such as India. 

It estimated the proposed duty would have covered only around half of EU aluminium scrap exports.

Recyclers Seek Clarity on Waste Shipment Rules

The Circular Metal Association took a different position. Its president, Murat Bayram, said recyclers were already preparing for the new Waste Shipment Regulation requirements and needed clarity on how the rules would work in practice. 

He described the Commission’s retreat from the export tariff option as a positive signal, noting the regulation already includes significant obligations such as independent audits of receiving facilities outside the EU. 

Bayram warned that restricting exports would not automatically create demand for recycled aluminium within Europe. 

Lower production in industries such as automotive and machinery could reduce domestic demand, while European manufacturers may not always require the same scrap grades and qualities currently exported.

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