Dubai Imposes Temporary Export Ban on Selected Scrap Metal and Industrial Waste

Dubai Customs has introduced a temporary ban on the export of selected industrial waste and scrap materials, including certain categories of iron, copper and aluminium scrap, in a move aimed at regulating outbound shipments of strategic secondary raw materials.

According to Customs Notice No. 13/2026, the export restriction took effect on June 10, 2026, and will remain in force until October 8, 2026. The notice states that the measure may be automatically renewed unless Dubai Customs issues a subsequent notice terminating the restriction.

The temporary ban applies to scrap materials classified under specific Harmonized System (HS) codes. Covered products include several categories of iron and steel scrap (HS codes 72041000, 72042100, 72042900, 72043000, 72044100 and 72044900), as well as copper scrap (HS code 74040000) and aluminium scrap (HS code 76020000).

The regulation provides for exemptions in certain circumstances, subject to approval by the Ministry of Foreign Trade. Exemptions may be granted for shipments covered by valid international contracts concluded before the ban entered into force, as well as for exports deemed to be in the public interest.

Companies seeking an exemption must submit an application to the Ministry of Foreign Trade through the designated trade information platform. Approval will be required before any qualifying shipment can proceed.

Dubai Customs said violations of the temporary export restrictions will be subject to penalties under the Unified Customs Law and its implementing regulations.

The temporary measure reflects ongoing efforts by governments in several regions to manage the availability of critical industrial raw materials and recycled metals amid evolving supply chain and manufacturing priorities.

Source: BIR

SUNSHINE Spotlight: Dubai’s temporary export restrictions on selected ferrous and non-ferrous scrap materials could tighten regional scrap availability and influence short-term trade flows for recycled metals.