German Steel Recyclers Urge EU to Reconsider Scrap Export Restrictions
Metal Recycling News | 2026-01-01 07:01:52
They argue these measures would impose political constraints or result in a de facto ban on scrap exports to non-EU countries.
By Paul Ploumis
SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): German steel recycling and waste management associations have issued a joint appeal urging the European Commission to reconsider proposed restrictions on steel and scrap exports, warning of serious consequences for the circular economy and overall market stability.
The appeal, addressed to European Commission Executive Vice-President and Competition Commissioner Teresa Ribera, comes from the German Steel Recycling Association (BDSV), the Association for Secondary Raw Materials and Waste Management (bvse), and the Association of Steel Traders and Recyclers (VDM).
The groups criticised policy initiatives currently under discussion in Brussels, including the new Waste Shipment Regulation, the Critical Raw Materials Act, and the European Action Plan for Steel and Metals. They argue these measures would impose political constraints or result in a de facto ban on scrap exports to non-EU countries.
BDSV Managing Director Guido Lipinski said the proposals incorrectly assume that structural challenges facing the steel industry can be solved by limiting recycling sales markets, despite there being no shortage of scrap, and described the approach as an attempt to suppress prices.
They warned excessive regulation threatens SMEs, deters recycling investment, weakens competitiveness, and undermines Europe’s circular economy, and industrial resilience long-term.
YOU MAY ALSO BE INTERESTED IN:
BDSV Submitted Proposal to Implement Scrap Bonus within EU
Steel Scrap Leads to Significant Reduction in GHG Emissions: BDSV
POLL
What is the biggest risk if the European Commission enforces strict scrap export restrictions?
Frequently Asked Questions
- Which associations issued the appeal to the European Commission?
The German Steel Recycling Association (BDSV), the Association for Secondary Raw Materials and Waste Management (bvse), and the Association of Steel Traders and Recyclers (VDM).
- What policies are being challenged by the appeal?
The appeal criticizes the Waste Shipment Regulation, the Critical Raw Materials Act, and the European Action Plan for Steel and Metals.
- What are the main concerns cited by the associations?
They warn that restrictions could suppress scrap prices, harm SMEs, deter recycling investment, and undermine Europe’s circular economy and industrial resilience.
