The Ministry of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry is preparing to hold talks with scrap metal exporters to explore the possibility of requiring them to allocate a portion of non-ferrous scrap for local processing.

This move comes in response to a growing call from Recyclers Ghana Limited for a ban on the export of non-ferrous scrap metals, citing negative impacts on domestic recycling capacity and lost economic opportunities.

According to Manesh Kumar Jangir, Director of Recyclers Ghana Limited, the company is currently operating below its full potential due to limited access to raw materials, as much of the scrap metal is shipped out of the country. He estimates that Ghana is losing approximately $250 million annually in potential foreign exchange earnings as a result of these exports.

angir stressed that boosting local supply would not only increase the company’s production and revenue but also contribute significantly to job creation.

Following a working visit to Recyclers Ghana Limited, Deputy Minister for Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, Sampson Ahi, acknowledged the concerns and confirmed that the Ministry is taking steps to find a sustainable solution.

“There is clearly a shortfall between the factory’s capacity and the raw materials they receive for processing,” Mr. Ahi said. “That’s why they’re appealing to government for action on the export of scrap metal.”

He added that the Ministry has scheduled a meeting with scrap metal exporters on Monday to begin stakeholder consultations.

“At that meeting, we’ll explore whether exporters can be required to sell a percentage of their non-ferrous scrap to local processors before exporting the rest,” the Deputy Minister stated. “We want to bring all parties to the table and find a balanced, practical solution that supports both local industry and fair trade.”