German Recyclers Back EU Steel Industry Protection Measures

German recycling companies, backed by bvse - Recycling Germany, BDSV, and VDM, along with Recycling Europe, have thrown their support behind the EU's plans to safeguard the steel industry. This move comes as the EU tightens its grip on ferrous scrap exports and steel producers welcome new measures.

The bvse, BDSV, and VDM associations, representing around 5,000 German recycling companies and over 65,000 jobs, have joined forces with Recycling Europe to support the EU's steel industry protection. Recycling Europe, with over 20,000 member companies and 350,000 employees across Europe, shares this stance.

In the first half of 2025, the EU reduced ferrous scrap exports to third countries by 0.9% compared to the same period in 2024, amounting to 8.11 million tons. Turkey remained the largest recipient, with a 15.3% increase to 5.57 million tons. More than 80% of secondary metals from association members are sold within the EU, making fair competition crucial.

European and German steel producers have welcomed the first package of measures from the European Commission's Steel and Metals Action Plan (SMAP). However, BDSV CEO Guido Lipinski cautioned against unfair regimes being affected by reduced import quotas and higher duties, which could impact domestic steel processing companies and European consumers. Recyclers emphasized the need for a strict Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), prioritization of European products, and acceleration of carbon neutrality alongside industry efforts to increase competitiveness. Processors considered the decision not to restrict scrap exports a significant victory for common sense.

German recycling companies and Recycling Europe have voiced their support for the EU's steel industry protection measures. With the EU reducing ferrous scrap exports and steel producers welcoming new measures, the industry braces for changes that could impact competition and consumer prices.