The European aluminium industry, represented by European Aluminium, has expressed significant disappointment over the continued postponement and alteration of planned scrap export regulations. The European Commission's initial proposal for export duties has been substituted with a ban on scrap sales to non-OECD countries. This new measure is not anticipated to take effect until 2027 at the earliest.
This delay and policy change create uncertainty for freight forwarders and logistics operations involved in the movement of aluminium scrap. Forwarders will need to monitor the evolving regulatory landscape closely, particularly the distinction between OECD and non-OECD markets, to ensure compliance and avoid disruptions when the ban eventually comes into force. The shift from duties to an outright ban could lead to significant changes in trade flows and require adjustments in sourcing and recycling strategies for European manufacturers.
The industry had been anticipating measures to secure domestic supply of aluminium scrap, a critical secondary raw material for sustainable production. The prolonged wait and the change in approach mean that companies must continue to operate without the expected regulatory framework, potentially impacting their long-term planning for raw material security and circular economy initiatives. The focus will now be on preparing for the eventual implementation of the non-OECD export ban and understanding its full implications for global scrap trade.