EU Opens Consultation on Aluminium Scrap Trade Measures

Metal Recycling News  |  2026-01-20 10:41:03   |   By

Open for submissions until 31 January 2026, the initiative explores multiple policy scenarios and their potential impact on the EU aluminium market.

Summary
  • Policy Review Initiated: The European Commission opened a public consultation to evaluate whether additional trade policy tools are needed for the aluminium sector.
  • Scrap Supply Focus: The initiative prioritizes safeguarding aluminium scrap availability, a critical input for recycling and downstream manufacturing.
  • Next Steps: Consultation findings will inform potential policy actions, including export-related measures, expected by Q2 2026.

SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): The European Commission has initiated a major public consultation to evaluate whether additional trade policy interventions are required for the aluminium sector, with particular emphasis on safeguarding adequate supplies of aluminium scrap within the European Union. The consultation is a key step in assessing challenges across the aluminium value chain, especially the availability and cost of secondary raw materials essential for recycling and downstream manufacturing.

Findings from the consultation will feed into a Commission staff working document and are expected to guide potential policy decisions, including possible export-related measures, by the second quarter of 2026. This process is of significant importance to aluminium recyclers, given growing concerns over scrap outflows and market imbalances.

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Open for submissions until 31 January 2026, the initiative explores multiple policy scenarios and their potential impact on the EU aluminium market. It reflects commitments outlined in the Steel and Metals Action Plan adopted in March 2025, as well as the RESourceEU Action Plan, which foresees targeted measures on aluminium scrap in spring 2026.

Industry bodies, including BIR and Recycling Europe, are preparing a coordinated response to ensure recyclers’ interests are effectively represented. Stakeholders are encouraged to contribute data and insights. Bottom of Form