Trade Delays, Supply Issues Hit Global Non-Ferrous Scrap Recycling: BIR
Metal Recycling News | 2026-07-08 11:22:51 | By Paul Ploumis
The scrap export ban imposed earlier this year has reduced domestic scrap collection and forced several collection facilities to shut down in Ukraine.
SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): The global non-ferrous scrap recycling industry continues to face a difficult operating environment, according to the July 2026 Quarterly Report from the Bureau of International Recycling (BIR). The market growth in several regions has been impacted by volatile metal prices, trade disruptions and supply constraints.
The fluctuations on the London Metal Exchange (LME), regulatory changes, and logistical challenges are seen as creating significant threats to recyclers and scrap traders worldwide, the BIR report said.
In Mexico, exporters are encountering delays at the U.S. border as a result of enhanced scrutiny imposed by authorities. Meanwhile, Malaysia continues to face port-related disruptions, despite improvement in the clearance of containers during recent weeks. The recyclers are still concerned about unclear customs requirements.
The scrap export ban imposed earlier this year has reduced domestic scrap collection and forced several collection facilities to shut down in Ukraine. Extreme heat across parts of Europe has disrupted scrap collection. Lower material inflows have intensified competition for available scrap. The report also notes softer non-ferrous prices in the UK.
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