BIR Responds to EU Steel Regulation Proposal
The Bureau of International Recycling (BIR), representing the global recycling industry, has commented on the European Commission’s new regulation proposal aimed at protecting the EU steel sector from global overcapacity (COM(2025) 726).
The proposed measures include limiting tariff-free steel imports to 18.3 million tonnes annually—a 47% reduction from 2024. Additionally, the out-of-quota duty would double to 50%, and a Melt and Pour traceability requirement would be introduced to prevent circumvention. If adopted, this regulation would replace the current EU steel safeguard, which expires in June 2026.
Concerns Over Scrap Export Monitoring
Although the proposal does not currently impose export restrictions on metal scrap, it introduces a monitoring system. BIR warns that such measures could set the stage for future limitations. Restricting exports of secondary raw materials might weaken the competitiveness of Europe’s recycling industry and hinder circular economy goals.
Alev Somer, BIR Environment and Trade Director, stresses: “Recycled materials are crucial for decarbonising the metals industry. They should be treated as strategic resources in the circular economy. Supporting free trade for recyclers, rather than constraining it, is essential to achieve both climate objectives and industrial competitiveness.”
Focus on Demand, Not Barriers
BIR advocates that the EU should stimulate demand for recycled steel rather than relying on trade restrictions. For instance, mechanisms such as recycled content targets, green public procurement, and financial incentives can drive circular growth while strengthening industrial resilience.