BIR asks Brussels for more time on its scrap export ban list

The Bureau of International Recycling (BIR) has asked the European Commission to extend its consultation on which non-EU countries can receive EU scrap, and to reassess the proposed restrictions. The UK isn’t covered by these rules, but the outcome could still shape where scrap goes and who buys it. For the background, see our earlier posts on what the EU curbs could mean for UK yards and where UK scrap goes next.

What’s happened

BIR has asked for a four-week extension, taking the consultation to at least eight weeks, with a deadline no earlier than 13 November 2026. It also wants the Commission to revisit the evidence and legal reasoning behind the draft list. BIR says more time would let affected countries work with their ministries and facilities and submit supplementary evidence.

In its feedback, BIR said it was “deeply concerned” about disrupted trade flows, market distortion and reduced access to steel scrap. Under the draft, only five countries are proposed for metal waste: Moldova, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Serbia and Ukraine. Others, including India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Morocco and Egypt, aren’t proposed for metals.

The consultation opened on 18 September and closed on 16 October, with 161 responses for and against. The Commission hasn’t said whether it will consider BIR’s request.

Where the industry stands

• Against the draft: recyclers including Galloo France, Kuusakoski, Cronimet and HJHansen questioned its legal basis, proportionality and evidence. Morocco’s industry ministry and Pakistan-based ABM Recycling said the restrictions would threaten their supply security.
• For the draft: European steel association Eurofer and Italian producer Finarvedi back it, citing scrap as a strategic raw material and the EU’s commitment not to export its waste problems.

Key dates

• 16 October 2026: consultation closed
• 21 November 2026: Commission must publish the final list
• 21 May 2027: restrictions take effect

Why it matters for the UK

UK yards aren’t bound by the EU list, so their export routes stay open. If EU material can’t reach some overseas buyers, those buyers may look to UK scrap instead, but that depends on the final list and nothing is settled. A tougher list could redirect demand. A softer one would change little.

What it means for yards and buyers

Nothing changes today. Keep an eye on the 21 November decision, check where your material ends up and which waste codes apply, and be ready for more export enquiries. Treat any price upside as possible, not certain, and watch buyer bids rather than assuming current premiums will hold.

Sources: BIR urges Commission to reassess steel scrap export ban list, extend consultation (Fastmarkets, 19 Oct) · EU moves to curb scrap exports to non-OECD countries (ScrapBays, 7 Oct) · Analysis: Where UK scrap goes next as the EU narrows its export routes (ScrapBays, 9 Oct)