As part of its pre-event activities, the Bharat Recycling Show (BRS), organised by Media Fusion and Crain Communications, recently hosted a webinar on “Navigating Challenges in the Metals Scrap Trade: Regulations, Compliance, and Global Forces”. The session brought together industry leaders to discuss pressing issues, regulatory hurdles, and opportunities shaping the future of the non-ferrous metals scrap sector.

Dr Anupam Agnihotri, Director, JNARDDC, Ministry of Mines, highlighted the growing focus on green aluminium, modular reactors, digital tools, and sustainability frameworks. He cautioned that by 2030–35, zero-emission production would become the global standard, creating competitiveness challenges for MSMEs lacking the resources to adapt. He further stressed that while the immediate impact of the EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) may be limited, long-term decarbonisation efforts require urgent industry focus.

Sandeep Jain, President, Bombay Metal Exchange and MD, Laurel Wires, called for breaking industry silos by creating a common platform for knowledge-sharing, scrap tracking, and policy alignment. He underlined the importance of collective advocacy, shared investments in infrastructure, and stronger compliance mechanisms. On GST reforms, he reiterated the industry’s demand to reduce GST on scrap to 5% and suggested the introduction of a reverse charge mechanism to improve transparency.

Jain also noted that the CPCB is expected to roll out an Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) digital portal for non-ferrous metals by April 2026, requiring mandatory registration 90 days before launch.

Sandeep Vakharia, Hon. Secretary, Bombay Non-ferrous Metal Association, warned that the EU’s 2027 restriction on scrap exports to non-OECD nations could impact nearly 30–40% of India’s scrap imports. He stressed the need for better data on consumption, output, and waste management to secure raw material supplies.

Jaimin Patel, Asst. Director, NABCB, emphasised that collaboration, accredited quality assurance, and transparent systems are key to easing compliance burdens and building India’s global credibility as a trusted recycling hub.

The panel collectively underlined the importance of regulatory clarity, sustainable practices, and global policy readiness to strengthen India’s non-ferrous metals recycling ecosystem.

The discussions served as a prelude to BRS 2025, scheduled for November in Mumbai, which will bring together stakeholders to showcase innovations and drive solutions for a sustainable future.