Aperam Backs EU Proposal to Strengthen Scrap Export Controls

Aperam has expressed support for the European Commission's proposed measures to strengthen controls on recyclable material exports to non-OECD countries under the revised Waste Shipment Regulation (EU) 2024/1157. In a statement issued on October 28, 2026, the stainless steel and recycling group called for the proposal's adoption by November 21, 2026, emphasizing the importance of securing secondary raw materials for Europe's industrial value chains.

Recycled metals play a central role in European stainless steel production, accounting for approximately 80% of its metallic inputs, according to Aperam. The company argued that continued access to stainless steel scrap is essential for maintaining production competitiveness and supporting industrial decarbonization. As a major producer and recycler of stainless steel and specialty alloys, Aperam views scrap as a strategic raw material rather than surplus material available for unrestricted export.

The company also highlighted concerns over potential regulatory loopholes that could weaken the effectiveness of export controls. Its recommendations include maintaining strict environmental requirements for importing countries, excluding destinations unable to demonstrate standards equivalent to those in the EU, and avoiding transitional export quotas. Aperam further called for measures to prevent circumvention through End-of-Waste classifications or indirect shipments via OECD countries, supported by effective customs enforcement.

Beyond export controls, Aperam urged EU policymakers to recognize stainless steel scrap as a strategic secondary raw material for nickel and chromium under the EU's circular economy and Critical Raw Materials initiatives. These metals are important inputs for stainless steel production, making the availability of recovered materials relevant to both resource security and the competitiveness of European manufacturing.

The debate reflects a broader challenge for Europe's recycling industry: balancing international scrap trade with domestic demand for secondary raw materials. While export restrictions could help retain recyclable materials within Europe, their implementation also has implications for scrap collectors, processors, traders and downstream manufacturers. Regulatory clarity and effective enforcement will therefore be important in determining how these measures influence material flows and investment across the recycling value chain.

Source: Aperam

SUNSHINE Spotlight: Aperam's position highlights the growing importance of scrap as a strategic resource in Europe's industrial and decarbonization strategies. With recycled metals accounting for approximately 80% of the metallic inputs in European stainless steel production, changes to export regulations could influence regional scrap availability, international trade flows and recycling investment decisions.