Why is the Bureau of International Recycling (BIR) concerned about the EU’s proposed trade measure?

BIR fears that restricting exports of recycled aluminium could distort international trade, limit market access, and negatively affect sustainability and circular economy goals.

What did the European Commission announce regarding recycled aluminium exports?

Executive Vice-President Maro&scaron; &Scaron;efčovič revealed that the Commission is preparing a formal proposal, expected in spring 2026, to address what it describes as “aluminium scrap leakage.”

Does BIR believe there is evidence of aluminium scrap leakage from the EU?

No. BIR argues that the Commission’s own monitoring data does not support claims of leakage or shortages that would justify trade restrictions.

BIR Raises Alarm Over EU Plan for New Controls on Recycled Aluminium Exports

Metal Recycling News | 2025-11-26 11:28:41

BIR urged that the new trade measure should be evidence-based, proportionate, balanced and globally coherent.

By Paul Ploumis

BIR Raises Alarm Over EU Plan for New Controls on Recycled Aluminium Exports

Summary

BIR criticized the European Commission’s plan to develop a trade measure that may restrict exports of recycled aluminium from the EU, citing concern over industry impact.
The organization disputes claims of “aluminium scrap leakage,” noting that the Commission’s own monitoring data shows no supporting evidence.
BIR urged policymakers to ensure any proposal is evidence-based and balanced, warning that restrictive measures could disrupt global trade and hinder circular economy and decarbonization goals.

SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): The Bureau of International Recycling (BIR) has voiced strong concerns following remarks from European Commission Executive Vice-President for Trade, Maroš Šefčovič, regarding the beginning of preparatory work on a potential trade restriction aimed at exports of recycled aluminium from the European Union.

Speaking at a recent meeting with representatives of the European aluminium production industry, Šefčovič indicated that the European Commission intends to present a formal legislative proposal in spring 2026. The initiative is being framed as part of the Commission’s effort to curb what it describes as “aluminium scrap leakage” and to secure competitively priced recycled material for European manufacturers.

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However, BIR has challenged the justification behind the proposal, pointing out that data from the Commission’s own monitoring systems for secondary raw materials show no verifiable evidence of the alleged leakage problem. According to the organization, recycled aluminium plays a critical role in Europe’s circular economy ambitions and its broader transition toward decarbonization, making transparent and efficient market access essential.

BIR emphasized that the supply of recycled aluminium is highly dependent on open and fair international trade flows. Restrictive export measures, it warned, could disrupt global market balance, reduce investment incentives, and potentially undermine sustainability objectives.

The association has called on EU policymakers to ensure that any new regulatory framework is science-based, proportionate, carefully balanced, and coherent with global trade principles, rather than driven by industrial protectionism.

POLL

Should the EU implement trade restrictions on recycled aluminium exports to prevent alleged scrap leakage?

Yes — stronger controls are necessary to protect domestic supply

No — open global trade is vital for the recycling industry

Maybe — only if clear evidence supports the issue

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is the Bureau of International Recycling (BIR) concerned about the EU’s proposed trade measure?
BIR fears that restricting exports of recycled aluminium could distort international trade, limit market access, and negatively affect sustainability and circular economy goals.
What did the European Commission announce regarding recycled aluminium exports?
Executive Vice-President Maroš Šefčovič revealed that the Commission is preparing a formal proposal, expected in spring 2026, to address what it describes as “aluminium scrap leakage.”
Does BIR believe there is evidence of aluminium scrap leakage from the EU?
No. BIR argues that the Commission’s own monitoring data does not support claims of leakage or shortages that would justify trade restrictions.