Kazakhstan has extended its ban on exporting ferrous and non-ferrous scrap, used pipes, and railway tracks for six months to support its domestic steel industry. 

The draft order was published on January 24 and will take effect ten days after its official release.

The government aims to ensure a stable raw material supply for local steelmakers, promote higher value-added production, and support environmental goals by reducing energy consumption. The restriction has been in place for seven years. 

Additionally, since December 1, 2024, Kazakhstan has imposed a six-month ban on steel billet and semi-finished product exports to boost domestic steel processing. 

In 2024, the country’s steel production rose by 9.5% year on year to 4.17 million tons, showing industry growth.