Poland Pushes for EU Action Against Ukraine’s Scrap Steel Export Limits
Metal Recycling News | 2026-01-29 07:04:15
In late December, Kyiv introduced zero export quotas on ferrous scrap, effectively halting shipments from Jan. 1, 2026, in a move aimed at supporting Ukraine’s wartime steel industry.
By Paul Ploumis
SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): Poland has called for urgent European Union intervention after Ukraine imposed a sudden ban on exports of steel scrap to the bloc, warning of significant risks to industrial competitiveness, production stability and employment.
According to Business Insider Polska, the Polish Ministry of Development and Technology said the restrictions could trigger higher production costs, supply shortages and potential output cuts across the domestic steel sector.
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In late December, Kyiv introduced zero export quotas on ferrous scrap, effectively halting shipments from Jan. 1, 2026, in a move aimed at supporting Ukraine’s wartime steel industry. Poland, Ukraine’s largest EU customer for steel scrap, relies heavily on imported material, particularly as nearly half of its steel output is produced using electric arc furnaces that depend on scrap rather than iron ore.
Industry groups warn that the ban could give Ukrainian producers a cost advantage, distorting competition within the European single market. Warsaw said it sought to avert the dispute, formally urging Ukraine in December to reconsider the measures, but received no response.
Poland has since appealed to the European Commission, arguing the issue falls under EU common trade policy. Officials said the matter would also feature in upcoming bilateral talks, amid broader tensions between wartime industrial policy and EU market rules.
POLL
Should the European Union intervene in Ukraine’s steel scrap export ban?
Frequently Asked Questions
- Why did Ukraine ban steel scrap exports to the EU?
Ukraine introduced zero export quotas to secure domestic scrap supply and support its wartime steel industry.
- Why is Poland particularly affected?
Poland is Ukraine’s largest EU customer for steel scrap and relies heavily on imported material, especially for electric arc furnace-based steel production.
- What risks does Poland see from the ban?
Higher production costs, raw material shortages, potential output cuts, and job losses across its steel sector.
