Dubai Temporarily Bans Exports of Ferrous, Copper and Aluminum Scrap: Global Metals Market Faces Supply Disruptions

Dubai, UAE – Dubai Customs has issued Customs Notice No. 13/2026, officially imposing a temporary ban on the export of certain industrial scrap materials, including ferrous scrap, copper scrap, and aluminum scrap. The regulation took effect on 10 June 2026 and will remain in force until 8 October 2026, for a period of four months, with the possibility of automatic extension unless officially revoked.

According to the notice, the export ban applies to the following HS codes:

Ferrous scrap: 72041000, 72042100, 72042900, 72043000, 72044100, and 72044900

Copper scrap: 74040000

Aluminum scrap: 76020000

These categories represent some of the most actively traded recyclable metals in the international market.

Exemptions May Be Granted Under Certain Conditions

The UAE Ministry of Foreign Trade may consider granting exemptions for shipments that were prepared for export under international contracts signed before the ban came into effect, as well as in cases deemed to serve the public interest.

Companies seeking an exemption must submit an application in accordance with the procedures established by the UAE Ministry of Foreign Trade.

Impact on the Global Scrap Market

Dubai is one of the Middle East’s leading trading and re-export hubs for recyclable metals. The temporary export restriction is expected to reduce the volume of scrap available to international markets, particularly for copper, aluminum, and ferrous metals.

Countries that import significant quantities of scrap from the UAE—including India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Vietnam, and several Southeast Asian nations—may experience direct supply disruptions as available export volumes decline.

In the short term, international scrap prices and premiums for certain grades are likely to increase if alternative supply sources are unable to meet market demand promptly.

The measure also reflects a growing global trend in which governments are retaining recyclable raw materials for domestic metal production rather than allowing the export of valuable secondary resources.

Recommendations for Businesses

Metal trading, importing, exporting, and recycling companies are advised to:

• Review all existing contracts involving scrap supplies originating from the UAE.
• Verify the HS codes of each shipment to determine whether they fall within the scope of the export ban.
• Proactively diversify procurement by sourcing scrap from alternative suppliers in the United States, Europe, Japan, Australia, or other markets to minimize the risk of supply disruptions.
• Closely monitor further announcements from Dubai Customs and the UAE Ministry of Foreign Trade, particularly regarding any extension, amendment, or termination of the export ban after 8 October 2026.

VMRF will continue to monitor and provide the latest updates on international trade policies and global metals market developments, helping businesses make timely and informed commercial decisions.