EuRIC, the voice of European recyclers, strongly opposes the potential introduction of export tariffs on recycled aluminium, which is frequently mischaracterised as “scrap.” Contrary to concerns raised by aluminium producers about excessive exports, official data shows a year-on-year decline in export volumes, with shipments to the United States accounting for just 0.4% of total EU recycled aluminium exports.

Any calls for restrictive trade measures risk undermining Europe’s advanced aluminium recycling industry, distorting market dynamics, and weakening the EU’s circular economy and climate objectives.

EuRIC calls for swift cooperation to strengthen the EU’s aluminium sector during this period of uncertainty, and urges EU policymakers to adopt collaborative, evidence-based policies that support the entire aluminium value chain — from recyclers to manufacturers — ensuring the resilience, competitiveness, and sustainability of the European aluminium industry.

In this position paper, EuRIC sets the record straight on recycled aluminium exports and outlines the real challenges facing Europe’s aluminium recycling industry: