Scrap Exports Grow by 45.5% Year-on-Year
In April 2025, Ukraine’s scrap metal exports surged to 46.32 thousand tons, marking a 77.1% increase compared to the same month in 2024. This growth reflects a substantial 16.1% rise from the previous month. Poland remains the top destination for Ukrainian scrap, receiving 40.15 thousand tons, or 88.4% of total shipments.
Key Markets and Revenue Growth
Poland continues to dominate as Ukraine’s key export market for scrap metal. Shipments to Poland grew by 19.9% month-on-month in April. Meanwhile, exports to Greece and Bulgaria saw a decline, while shipments to Germany increased significantly by 66.1% from March 2025.
Revenue from scrap exports also rose, reaching $14.94 million in April 2025. This marks a 19.7% month-on-month increase and a 71.3% year-on-year growth. In the first four months of 2025, Ukraine’s scrap exports generated $39.25 million, a 39.4% increase compared to the same period last year.
A Surge in Ukraine’s Scrap Metal Exports in 2024
In 2024, Ukraine experienced a remarkable 60% year-on-year increase in scrap exports, reaching a total of 293.2 thousand tons. This growth followed a significant rise in 2023, where exports more than tripled compared to 2022. The main buyers in 2024 included Poland, Greece, and Germany.
The Impact of Export Licensing and Quotas
As Ukraine’s scrap exports continue to grow, the Ministry of Economy has proposed a new draft resolution to impose a licensing system and export quotas on scrap metal. This resolution suggests a zero-export quota for 2025. The Ukrainian government has used such measures in the past to support its domestic steel industry, especially during periods of high demand.
Global Trends and the Future of Scrap Metal Exports
Globally, scrap metal is increasingly viewed as a strategic resource for decarbonization and green metallurgy. As countries adopt greener technologies, they are imposing more trade barriers to prevent scrap from leaving their borders. Currently, 48 countries have restrictions on scrap exports, with more than a third having implemented complete bans. As a result, nations are focusing on preserving scrap for their domestic steel industries.
This global trend could shift the landscape for Ukrainian scrap exports, making it more advantageous to export finished steel rather than raw scrap metal. The EU’s CBAM (Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism) and other green initiatives are expected to further reduce the availability of scrap on the global market.
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