EU tightens non-OECD waste export rules, recyclers warn of scrap surplus
The European Commission has published its preliminary assessment of 32 non-OECD countries seeking approval to keep receiving EU non-hazardous waste once new export rules apply from May 2027, with a separate ban on plastic waste exports to non-OECD countries starting 21 November 2026. Recycling Europe has criticised the Commission's approach to ferrous and non-ferrous metal waste, warning that restricting access to buyers such as India could leave recyclers with surplus material that European manufacturers are not ready to absorb.
Why this mattersTighter export rules could depress recovered-material prices and undermine the investment case for new EU recycling capacity unless domestic demand for secondary raw materials grows.
- Thirty-two non-OECD countries, including India, Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam, Pakistan and Thailand, have applied to keep receiving EU non-hazardous waste.
- EU plastic waste exports to non-OECD countries are prohibited from 21 November 2026.
- Wider restrictions on non-hazardous waste exports to non-OECD countries apply from May 2027, with shipments allowed only to approved destinations and streams.
- Recycling Europe has criticised the Commission's preliminary approach to ferrous and non-ferrous metal waste, arguing restrictions should reflect individual streams and receiving facilities.
- Recycling Europe estimates about four-fifths of the recycled metals its industry produces are already sold within Europe.
- India, a substantial buyer of European metal scrap, has applied to remain eligible; some shipments could be blocked from May 2027.
Sources
cij.world