As part of the lead-up to the Bharat Recycling Show (BRS) 2025, organized by Media Fusion and Crain Communications, a recent webinar titled “Navigating Challenges in the Metals Scrap Trade: Regulations, Compliance, and Global Forces” brought together prominent voices from across the non-ferrous recycling ecosystem. The session served as a knowledge-sharing platform to highlight challenges, regulatory shifts, and strategic opportunities shaping the future of the industry.
Dr Anupam Agnihotri, Director of the Jawaharlal Nehru Aluminium Research Development & Design Centre (JNARDDC), Ministry of Mines, Government of India, underscored the need for India’s aluminium sector—particularly micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs)—to embrace innovation and sustainability.
“Major players are already experimenting with small modular reactors, digital tools, and clean production methods,” he said. “By 2030–35, ‘green aluminium’ will likely become a global standard. MSMEs, if unsupported, could struggle to meet these benchmarks due to a lack of resources and technical know-how.”
On the European Union’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), Dr Agnihotri noted that while short-term impacts might be minimal, the long-term push towards decarbonization poses significant challenges. “Future competitiveness will hinge on how effectively we deploy renewables, nuclear, hydrogen, and extend support to smaller enterprises.”
He further emphasized the importance of industry-government collaboration beyond routine concerns like GST and duties. “Stakeholders must contribute data, support standardization, undergo audits, and enhance energy efficiency. The government can facilitate, but industry must lead the charge in innovation and investment.”
Sandeep Jain, President of Bombay Metal Exchange Ltd and Managing Director of Laurel Wires, emphasized the fragmented nature of India’s non-ferrous recycling industry. “Too often, manufacturers, recyclers, traders, and regulators operate independently, which undermines collective growth,” he said.
Jain called for a common digital platform that would enable real-time tracking of scrap flows, promote best practices, and simplify compliance efforts. He stressed that collective advocacy could help shape policy more effectively, while joint investments in processing infrastructure would boost efficiency and scalability.
He also addressed ongoing discussions around GST reforms, stating, “Industry associations are united in proposing a 5% GST rate on scrap. This would curb fake invoicing and ease compliance.” Jain suggested implementing a reverse charge mechanism (RCM) alongside a 2% TDS to foster transparency in tax collection.
On the topic of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for non-ferrous metals, Jain shared that the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) is developing a digital compliance portal similar to those already deployed for plastics and e-waste. This platform is expected to go live by April 2026, with registration beginning 90 days in advance. Users will be able to self-identify as manufacturers, recyclers, or traders, and receive support for error resolution through CPCB.
Sandeep Vakharia, Hon Secretary of the Bombay Non-ferrous Metal Association, raised concerns about the European Union’s proposed 2027 restriction on scrap exports to non-OECD countries. He warned that 30–40% of India’s scrap imports—almost half of current levels—could be at risk if India fails to provide adequate data on its recycling practices.
“Our data gaps around consumption, production, and hazardous waste management threaten our raw material security,” Mr Vakharia said. He urged urgent action from the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF) to address these vulnerabilities and ensure continued access to global scrap supplies.
Jaimin Patel, Assistant Director at the National Accreditation Board for Certification Bodies, stressed the importance of a standards-based approach. “A shared focus on certifications, quality assurance, and system transparency can reduce compliance burdens while improving India’s standing as a reliable recycling destination,” he said.
The panel unanimously agreed that regulatory clarity, global policy shifts, and sustainability practices will be critical in shaping India’s future in non-ferrous recycling. Discussions reinforced the urgency of establishing a resilient ecosystem that harmonizes trade, compliance, environmental protection, and international competitiveness.
The webinar successfully set the tone for BRS 2025, scheduled for November in Mumbai. As India’s leading event for the recycling industry, the show aims to spotlight innovation, facilitate meaningful dialogue, and drive actionable strategies for a sustainable future.
