Ahead of the Bharat Recycling Show (BRS) 2025, Media Fusion and Crain Communications hosted a pre-event webinar titled “Navigating Challenges in the Metals Scrap Trade: Regulations, Compliance, and Global Forces”. The session brought together leading voices from India’s metals recycling ecosystem to address regulatory bottlenecks, global trade shifts, and the path to building a competitive and sustainable non-ferrous metals scrap sector.
Dr. Anupam Agnihotri, Director, Jawaharlal Nehru Aluminium Research Development & Design Centre (JNARDDC), Ministry of Mines, Govt. of India, highlighted how large aluminium players are already leveraging small modular reactors, digital tools, and green compliance practices. “By 2030–35, ‘green aluminium’ or zero-emission production will become the global benchmark, creating a significant competitiveness gap for MSMEs that lack the resources to meet such targets,” he said. While the EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) may have limited immediate impact, he stressed the urgent need for long-term decarbonization, integration of renewables and hydrogen, and strong government–industry partnerships.
Mr. Sandeep Jain, President, Bombay Metal Exchange Ltd. and MD, Laurel Wires, called for collaboration across the value chain. “The industry often operates in silos, with manufacturers, recyclers, traders, and regulators working in isolation, which hinders collective progress,” he said. He recommended a common platform for knowledge-sharing, collective advocacy, and joint investments in modern scrap infrastructure. He also emphasized GST reforms, urging a reduction of GST on scrap to 5% to curb fake invoicing and improve compliance.
Mr. Jain further pointed to the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) framework, noting that the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) is expected to launch a digital portal for non-ferrous metals like copper and aluminium by April 2026. The platform will mandate registration and streamline compliance through role-based digital systems.
Mr. Sandeep Vakharia, Hon. Secretary, Bombay Non-ferrous Metal Association, raised concerns over the EU’s planned 2027 restriction on scrap exports to non-OECD countries. He warned that without comprehensive national data on scrap flows, hazardous waste management, and consumption, India could risk losing 30–40% of its imported scrap supply, threatening raw material security.
Mr. Jaimin Patel, Asst. Director, National Accreditation Board for Certification Bodies, underscored the role of standards and accredited quality assurance. “Collaboration is central to building a robust recycling ecosystem. By rallying around standards, accredited quality assurance, and transparent systems, the industry can significantly reduce the compliance burden while enhancing India’s global credibility,” he said.
The panel concluded that data-driven systems, global policy preparedness, and sustainability frameworks will be crucial for India to secure its position as a trusted global hub for non-ferrous recycling.
The pre-event session has set the stage for BRS 2025, scheduled for November in New Delhi, where industry leaders, policymakers, and innovators will convene to drive actionable solutions for a sustainable recycling future.
