EU Proposes Adding 24 Countries to Its Non-Hazardous Waste Import List

The European Commission recently announced that it has received formal applications from 24 non-OECD countries seeking inclusion on the list of nations permitted to import non-hazardous waste from the EU.

This initiative aligns with the European Green Deal and the EU's second Circular Economy Action Plan. The new Waste Shipment Regulation establishes a revised framework for waste transport within the EU as well as imports and exports involving third countries. Its objective is to ensure that the EU does not simply export its waste challenges but also contributes to environmentally sound waste management and better addresses illegal waste trafficking.

Under this regulation, stricter rules have been introduced for waste exports to non-OECD countries, including a full ban on plastic waste exports starting from November 21, 2026. For other types of non-hazardous waste, non-OECD countries must formally request approval from the European Commission to continue importing such waste. The deadline for submitting these requests was February 21, 2025.

As of that date, 24 countries have applied to be included on the list of nations eligible to import non-hazardous waste from the EU beyond May 21, 2027. These countries are: Bangladesh, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Egypt, El Salvador, India, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Moldova, Monaco, Morocco, Nigeria, North Macedonia, Pakistan, the Philippines, Saudi Arabia, Serbia, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand, Togo, Tunisia, Ukraine, and Vietnam.

The European Commission will assess these applications and compile an official list of non-OECD countries authorized to import specific waste streams from the EU. During the evaluation process, the Commission may contact applicant countries for clarifications or to request additional information.

The initial list of approved recipient countries is expected to be finalized by November 21, 2026. Non-OECD countries not included in the list will be prohibited from importing waste from the EU starting May 21, 2027. The list will be updated regularly, at least once every two years.