A Historic Milestone for the Recycling Industry

On June 11, 2026, the merger agreement between VDM Verband Deutscher Metallhändler und Recycler e. V. (VDM) and BDSV Bundesvereinigung Deutscher Stahlrecycling- und Entsorgungsunternehmen e. V. (BDSV) was officially signed in Dresden. This merger marks the creation of the Circular Metal Association (CMA).

The fusion of VDM and BDSV represents a significant milestone for both the German and European recycling industries. With more than 800 member companies, the CMA will become one of the most important and influential associations in the steel and metal recycling sector in Europe, strengthening the collective voice of companies across the entire value chain.

Murat Bayram, who previously served as President of the VDM, will become the first President of the CMA. In his speech, he emphasized the importance of cooperation and dialogue:

“ In a world marked by uncertainty, challenges, and geopolitical tensions, we are sending a very strong message today. While others build walls, we build bridges. While others draw borders, we work towards a circular economy for the future. ”

The CMA’s executive leadership will be formed by Guido Lipinski, former Managing Director of the BDSV, and Kristin Stegen, who will assume her role as Chief Executive Officer of the VDM on July 1. Together, they will lead the new association as a dual executive team. The headquarters of the CMA will be located in Berlin.

Vietnam Metal Recycling Forum (VMRF)had the honor of witnessing this historic merger firsthand. Representing the VMRF in Dresden was our Co-Founder, Trung Nguyen.

We at the Vietnam Metal Recycling Forum would like to congratulate Murat Bayram and everyone involved on this important achievement. We warmly welcome the establishment of the Circular Metal Association (CMA) and look forward to close and successful cooperation in the years ahead.

Congratulations on the founding of the CMA, and we wish the association every success in its future endeavors!

Looking forward to CMA-Summit Berlin in November 2026.