EU Publishes Authorized List: Over 20 Non-OECD Countries Approved to Import Specific Non-Hazardous Waste

On September 18, 2026, the European Commission published a draft delegated regulation proposing to add more than 20 non-OECD countries to an authorized list permitted to import specific types of non-hazardous waste from the EU. Serving as a supplement to the new Waste Shipment Regulation (WSR), the draft is expected to enter into force on May 21, 2027.

Background

Under the revised Waste Shipment Regulation, the EU will implement a full ban on exports of non-hazardous plastic waste to non-OECD countries starting November 21, 2026, and will prohibit exports of other non-hazardous waste to non-OECD countries from May 21, 2027. Non-OECD countries may be added to an authorized list if they can demonstrate to the European Commission that they have the capacity for environmentally sound waste management. The list will be updated at least every two years, and countries not initially approved may reapply. By the application deadline of February 21, 2025, a total of 32 non-OECD countries and territories had submitted import requests to the European Commission seeking inclusion on the authorized list.

Assessment Results of the Authorized List

According to the draft assessment published by the European Commission, more than 20 non-OECD countries have been included on the authorized list. The types of waste each country is permitted to import vary significantly. Overall, commonly recyclable materials such as waste paper, waste rubber, waste textiles, waste wood, and waste glass are the primary categories approved for import across countries, while metal waste faces much stricter scrutiny. Among the 32 applicant countries, only a small number have been approved to import metal waste. The Commission noted that metal waste carries a higher hazard profile due to the potential presence of persistent and toxic heavy metals, thus requiring more rigorous review. India, a major global importer of scrap metal, has not been approved to import EU metal waste (including aluminum scrap).

Overview of Approved Waste Types by Country/Region

Industry Impact

The European Commission is currently conducting a public consultation on the draft regulation, with the consultation period open until October 16, 2026. The delegated regulation is expected to be formally adopted in the fourth quarter of 2026. According to industry data, the EU exported 1.5 million tonnes of waste plastic in 2025, approximately 50% of which was shipped to non-OECD countries. The implementation of the new rules is expected to have a profound impact on the global waste trade landscape.

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