Two dozen non-OECD states still want EU scrap exports

The European Commission says 24 countries have submitted applications to continue receiving non-hazardous waste from the EU beyond May 2027, when the EU’s updated Waste Shipments Regulation (WSR) comes into force.

According to a news release from the Bureau of International Recycling, many non-OECD countries responded to the 21 February deadline. These are:

• Bangladesh
• Bosnia
• Herzegovina
• Egypt
• El Salvador
• India
• Indonesia
• Kazakhstan
• Malaysia
• Moldova
• Monaco
• Morocco
• Nigeria
• North-Macedonia
• Pakistan
• Philippines
• Saudi Arabia
• Serbia
• Singapore
• Taiwan
• Thailand
• Togo
• Tunisia
• Ukraine
• Vietnam

No China

The list contains some major trading nations for BIR’s members although China and Hong Kong are notable omissions. The global recycling organisation is urging members in non-OECD countries not on the list to engage with their national authorities to submit applications as soon as possible.

‘Though countries that missed the February deadline can still submit applications, there is no guarantee these will be processed in time for inclusion on the first approved list, which the Commission plans to establish by 21 November 2026,’ BIR says. ‘This timeline creates significant uncertainty for recyclers in these markets.’

The updated WSR includes a complete ban on plastic waste exports from 21 November 2026. For other non-hazardous waste categories, such as recycled metals and recovered paper, exports to non-OECD countries will be prohibited from 21 May 2027 unless those countries have been added to the approved list.

Complex implications

‘Whilst these developments are framed as advancing circular economy objectives, BIR recognises the complex implications for the global recycling industry. We have engaged with EU policymakers regarding potential impacts on international recycling supply chains, particularly for members in countries that have not yet submitted applications.’

BIR is asking the Commission to set out which specific waste streams each applicant country has included in their application. It says the information is essential for its members to determine whether their materials are covered, allowing for better business planning across supply chains.