The European Recycling Industries’ Confederation (EuRIC) opposed any export fees or restrictions on recycled aluminum leaving the EU, saying such measures would harm recyclers without helping the industry.

EuRIC said the EU remains a net importer of recycled aluminum, with imports from the US reaching 43,000 tons in 2024 versus just 9,300 tons exported. Monthly exports remain low in the first quarter of this year, making up a small share of the EU’s 5 million-ton annual output.

The group argued that export restrictions would not solve issues tied to energy costs or plant shutdowns and would hurt recyclers already burdened by tightening shipping rules. It urges EU policymakers to focus on solving high energy pricing and hurdles in administrative procedures instead of limiting trade.