Ukraine has extended restrictions on the export of timber and scrap metal for a further 12 months, until the end of 2026, introducing a zero‑quota licensing regime to retain strategic raw materials for domestic processing. Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko announced the decision yesterday, saying the move will help the national industry during wartime by ensuring critical inputs remain available for manufacturers.
On timber, the government has prolonged restrictions first introduced in late October. Logging volumes have fallen sharply during the full‑scale war due to active hostilities, while woodworking enterprises face raw‑material shortages that have forced many to halt operations. For rural communities, firewood remains a vital source of winter heating.
Svyrydenko said the extension would help stabilise supply for Ukrainian processors, reduce environmental pressure and strengthen the energy security of local communities. “The decision provides for a licensing regime with zero quotas for the export of unprocessed wood, fuelwood, as well as ferrous and copper scrap. This allows Ukraine to preserve strategic raw materials and direct them to domestic processing needs,” she wrote on Telegram following Wednesday’s cabinet meeting.
Scrap metal remains equally important for Ukraine’s metallurgical and foundry sectors. Despite existing export duties, outbound shipments have continued to rise — often routed through third countries without generating added value for Ukraine.
Domestic processing, by contrast, provides jobs, tax revenue and materials essential for defence and reconstruction. The use of scrap in steelmaking also reduces CO₂ emissions, aligning with EU environmental requirements. According to the government, the extended export limits are intended to preserve strategic raw materials, support domestic production and ensure that Ukraine’s industrial base remains resilient during wartime.
