EuRIC Rejects EU Recycled Aluminum Export Ban Proposal

EuRIC Rejects Calls for Recycled Aluminum Export Restrictions

The European Recycling Industries’ Confederation (EuRIC) has firmly opposed any move to restrict exports of recycled aluminum from the European Union. The organization warns that such measures would harm EU recyclers, undermine sustainability targets, and fail to address the root causes of industry challenges. Instead, EuRIC urges policymakers to focus on structural issues such as high energy costs and market inefficiencies.

In 2024, according to Eurostat data, the EU imported significantly more recycled aluminum from the United States than it exported. The bloc received 43,000 tons from the U.S. while sending only 9,300 tons back across the Atlantic. In early 2025, monthly exports remained low, averaging between 1,200 and 2,000 tons—marginal compared to the EU’s total annual recycled aluminum output of 5 million tons. These figures, EuRIC says, show that concerns over excessive exports are unfounded.

Moreover, EuRIC stresses that key grades like shredded zorba, often used in combustion engine manufacturing, are no longer in high demand within the EU. Because European automakers have phased out such engines, there is little domestic use for these aluminum alloys. Consequently, restricting exports would only add pressure to recyclers without benefiting the EU’s aluminum industry.

Why Aluminum Export Bans Would Undermine EU Climate Goals

In the past two years, EU aluminum producers shut down nearly half of their primary smelters due to soaring energy costs. This has led to increased reliance on imports from regions with more carbon-intensive energy production. Ironically, this shift undermines the EU’s climate objectives.

EuRIC argues that recycled aluminum—being far less carbon-intensive to produce—should be part of the EU’s green industrial strategy. However, restricting its trade threatens the economic viability of recyclers who already face tightening rules under the revised Waste Shipment Regulation (WSR).

Instead of punitive export measures, EuRIC calls for policy reforms to make domestic aluminum production more competitive. These include reducing administrative burdens, stabilizing energy prices, and promoting investments in recycling infrastructure. Only with these actions can recyclers continue contributing to Europe’s low-emissions future.

SuperMetalPrice Commentary:

As global demand for low-carbon metals rises—driven by the energy transition and EV growth—policy clarity and supply chain fluidity become paramount. EuRIC’s stance highlights a broader truth: free trade in recycled materials is essential to maintaining competitive and sustainable industrial ecosystems. Rather than limiting market access, Europe should focus on incentivizing circular economy models and improving energy policy. These steps are not just vital for recyclers—they’re critical for the continent’s broader industrial resilience.