NEWS & POLITICS
African exporters face new rules under upcoming EU Circular Economy Act
African exporters are bracing for both challenges and opportunities as they prepare to adapt to new sustainability and environmental regulations, driven by the European Union's forthcoming Circular Economy Act, expected to be approved in 2026.
Enos Denhere
The European Commission announced on its official website that it will launch a public consultation and Call for Evidence on August 1, 2025, for the proposed Circular Economy Act.
The legislation is intended to accelerate the EU's shift toward a circular economy, promoting resource reuse, waste reduction, and improved product design. The Act is intended to align with the European Union's strategy to reduce the EU's dependency on non-European raw material suppliers and increase competitiveness, sustainability, and resource efficiency.
According to the Africa Sustainability Matters website, the Circular Economy Act aims to create a Single Market for secondary raw materials while putting stricter requirements on product design, waste minimization, and recyclable content aspects. These requirements are expected to impact supply chains globally, particularly for African nations that export minerals, textiles, and packaging to the EU.
The report notes that under the EU's existing Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism, countries such as South Africa, Mozambique, Egypt, and Zimbabwe—major suppliers of carbon-intensive goods—are already under strain. The forthcoming Circular Economy Act is expected to intensify these pressures.
While the EU's Circular Economy Act will require African exporters to modernize operations and adopt greener technologies, it also presents new opportunities.
By embracing sustainability and innovation, African businesses could secure greater access to high-value European markets, boost exports, and amplify Africa's already significant role in global trade.
