Pakistan

The domestic scrap recycling industry is growing stronger through the introduction of reforms, with many other potential changes under discussion with the government as metals have become the country’s fourth-largest export, with China being its major trading partner for such commodities. These reforms will help businesses streamline their activities and thereby boost not only the country’s recycling volumes but also tax revenues for the government.

In June, the government implemented a new policy for exporters and recyclers, sharply increasing their taxes to build revenues from an industry that holds strong promise in terms of employment and export sales. Regressive taxation could place recyclers in a challenging position as they fear being unable to compete regionally for some materials, thus hindering their growth. 

Copper and aluminium have been experiencing steady home and international demand, giving recyclers the opportunity to make the best of both markets. A sharp rise has also been seen domestically for copper and aluminium alloys as well as significant growth in exports, mainly to China.

The revision to the EU’s Waste Shipment Regulation, covering scrap exports from the EU, is the biggest threat the market will face in the upcoming year. Recyclers are looking for a quick solution to this looming threat for 2025 as this is spreading instability within the business. Local companies have urged the government to respond to the EU with the aim of protecting the industry.