Metinvest: Scrap metal exports and EU CBAM threaten the recovery of the Ukrainian steel industry

At the Forbes Industrial Forum in Kiev, Alexander Mironenko, Chief Operating Officer of the Ukrainian mining and steel group Metinvest, outlined the key challenges facing Ukraine's steel industry as it faces military disruptions, increased scrap metal exports, and the impending impact of the EU Carbon Boundary Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM). Although production has partially recovered, Mironenko warned that without timely support and protective measures, the competitiveness and recovery of the sector remain at risk.

CBAM - additional load on Ukrainian steel

EU CBAM, which is due to enter into force in January 2026, is a significant problem for Ukrainian manufacturers.

Mironenko stressed that CBAM would impose additional duties on Ukrainian steel exports, undermining price competitiveness. Metinvest is lobbying for a delay to allow time for post-war reconstruction and modernization in accordance with EU green standards.

Another risk associated with CBAM is the loss of preferential access to EU markets, which could expose Ukraine to increased imports. In particular, Ukraine will become one of the most attractive markets for Turkish rolled products manufacturers, which will lead to a significant influx of Turkish products.

Scrap metal exports are a serious internal problem

Another pressing problem is the growth of scrap metal exports. Export volumes increased from 4,000 tons per month at the beginning of the war to the current 50,000 tons per month, resulting in a loss of