The issue of regulating scrap metal exports remains critical for the recovery and functioning of the Ukrainian heavy industry during wartime. Alexander Kalenkov, President of the Ukrmetallurgprom association, reiterated in late September 2026 the necessity of maintaining a zero quota on the export of this critical raw material. According to the expert, the current model of restrictions has proven its effectiveness, enabling domestic metallurgical enterprises to overcome acute resource shortages and stabilize production levels.
Effectiveness of Current Restrictions
Until recently, Ukraine's metallurgical industry suffered from a shortage of scrap metal, which threatened the fulfillment of production plans. The introduction of strict quotas helped rectify the situation: companies are now supplied with raw materials in volumes sufficient for full-scale operations. Kalenkov insists that lifting these restrictions is premature and could lead to a recurring supply crisis, negatively impacting tax revenues to the state budget.The Necessity for a Universal Duty
One of the serious problems with previous regulatory systems was the existence of exceptions for supplies to the European Union, which created 'grey' corridors for the re-export of Ukrainian scrap to third countries. The expert suggests implementing a unified export duty that would apply to all destinations without exception. Implementing such a measure requires conducting appropriate consultations with Brussels; however, considering the status of scrap metal as a critical raw material in EU policy, this appears to be a necessary step for protecting Ukraine's national interests.
