Scrap metal export ban to be lifted even though no improvements made — source

The scrap metal ban, implemented in June of last year is soon to be lifted, according to a reliable source who chooses to remain anonymous.

Scrap metal export was put on pause for one year by the A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) Government until the scrap metal industry was improved.

It was expected that better procedures and strategies would be put in place to improve the trade as concerns were raised over the management of the Scrap Metal Unit, the body that monitors the trade.

Additionally, there were complaints of vandalism and theft, as metal thieves were pillaging state and private infrastructures to supply the lucrative trade which had a demand on the international market. Concerns were also raised by metal exporters over the large duties levied on the exportation of scrap metal.

However, government is moving to lift the ban even though no significant strides have been taken to improve the industry, said the source.

According to reports Guyana Times have received, scrap metal exporters are uncertain whether to proceed with their trade as they have not received any confirmation on the ban, and are hesitant to restart normal work.

According to a source, numerous calls have been made by exporters but no substantial information is being given to them.

This publication was informed that if the ban is lifted, usually exporters would have to pay 100 per cent duty to export and since no progress was made to improve the industry within the year, this will likely remain the same. This payment would be nearly impossible for the dealers to pay.

However, according to the reliable source, the Business Ministry is seeking to have the exporters export their goods for free until better can be done. This will be done to keep the dealers quiet until procedures are put into place.

This will however result in major losses for government, losses amounting to multimillions.

Further, the Business Ministry along with Ministry of Communities, will be meeting with the Guyana Metal Recyclers’ Association for discussions as to how to proceed.

After that meeting definitive answers are to be given to the exporters as to how they should proceed.