BIR Malaga 2026: Africa’s Steel Growth to Unlock New Opportunities for Recycled Steel
Metal Recycling News | 2026-10-29 03:17:17
During the Ferrous Division’s plenary session on October 27, experts highlighted the continent’s growth potential and the need for region-specific strategies.
By Paul Ploumis
SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): Africa’s expanding steel industry could unlock significant opportunities for recycled steel suppliers, industry leaders said at the Bureau of International Recycling (BIR) World Recycling Convention in Malaga, Spain. However, infrastructure gaps, restrictive trade policies and investment risks remain major obstacles, the leaders said.
During the Ferrous Division’s plenary session on October 27, experts highlighted the continent’s growth potential and the need for region-specific strategies. African steel demand is projected to increase by approximately 4.4% in 2026. Crude steel production reached 19 million tonnes during the first nine months, representing nearly 10% year-on-year growth, according to official data.
BIR Ferrous Division President Shane Mellor emphasized that Africa comprises distinct markets requiring different approaches to collection, processing and trade.
XA Global Trade Advisors CEO Donald MacKay explained that domestic sales preferences and a 20% export duty in South Africa were designed to support local steelmakers but could discourage scrap collection and undermine recycling industry investment. Also, Navigate Commodities Managing Director Atilla Widnell warned that proposed European Union waste shipment rules could affect recycled metal exports to Egypt and Morocco.
Meanwhile, speakers cited Africa’s young population, infrastructure requirements and increasing reliance on imported scrap as long-term growth drivers.
POLL
What is Africa’s projected steel demand growth for 2026?
Frequently Asked Questions
- What growth opportunities does Africa’s steel industry offer recycled steel suppliers?
Africa’s steel demand is projected to increase by approximately 4.4% in 2026, while crude steel production grew by nearly 10% year on year during the first nine months. Rising steelmaking activity and infrastructure requirements could create opportunities for recycled steel suppliers.
- What challenges could limit the growth of Africa’s scrap recycling industry?
Infrastructure gaps, restrictive trade policies and investment risks remain key obstacles. Industry leaders also warned that export duties and proposed changes to international waste shipment regulations could discourage scrap collection and complicate cross-border trade.
- How could South Africa’s export duty affect the recycling industry?
South Africa’s 20% export duty, alongside domestic sales preferences, is intended to support local steelmakers. However, XA Global Trade Advisors CEO Donald MacKay warned that these measures could discourage scrap collection and undermine investment in the recycling sector.
