The debate reflects a broader global trend. European Aluminium has argued that large volumes of high-quality scrap leaving the region are weakening the competitiveness of Europe's domestic recycling industry, with some secondary aluminum production capacity remaining underutilized as a result. The issue is closely tied to the EU's industrial and climate strategies, and the final policy outcome remains under active discussion.

Elsewhere, Japan introduced a new Circular Economy Action Plan in 2026 targeting approximately ¥1 trillion in circular economy investment by 2030. The initiative aims to improve resource productivity, increase recycling rates, and reduce reliance on imported raw materials — reinforcing a global shift toward securing domestic non-ferrous metal supply chains in the face of rising geopolitical uncertainty.