The government extended export restrictions on timber and scrap metal until the end of 2026

Export Restrictions on Timber and Scrap Metal in Ukraine

According to Главком: The government of Ukraine has made the decision to extend export restrictions on timber and scrap metal until the end of 2026. This decision aims to support domestic production and reduce environmental pressure, as well as strengthen energy security in the country.

According to the adopted decision, a licensing regime with zero quotas for export is introduced for:

• unprocessed timber,
• fuel wood,
• scrap metal of ferrous metals and copper.

Economy Minister Yulia Svyrydenko noted that scrap metal is a critically important raw material for Ukrainian metallurgy and foundry industries. This decision also supports Ukrainian production by reducing pressure on the environment.

It is worth noting that timber harvesting volumes in Ukraine have significantly decreased due to hostilities during the full-scale war. However, according to the results of January-September 2025, the scrap metal industry increased the export of ferrous scrap by 54.1% compared to the same period in 2024. The export volume of ferrous scrap during this period amounted to 311.84 thousand tons.

The Importance of Continuing Restrictions

Thus, the continuation of export restrictions on timber and scrap metal is an important step in supporting the domestic market and the economy of Ukraine in the context of a difficult situation.

Continuing restrictions on the export of timber and scrap metal underscores the efforts of the Ukrainian government to protect domestic production amid war and economic instability. This step may help preserve jobs in key industries and ensure the stability of raw material supplies for Ukrainian companies. In a situation where exports and imports face significant pressure, such measures may become the foundation for economic recovery after hostilities conclude.