India Bans Export of Lithium-Ion Battery Black Mass

The government trade authority in India has officially updated its regulations concerning the outbound shipment of certain materials. Specifically, authorities have adjusted the trade guidelines for waste and scrap derived from primary cells, batteries, and electric accumulators. Under the updated framework, these items are no longer categorized under unrestricted trade rules. Many citizens frequently look up trade restrictions when they wonder if India bans specific items or products from leaving the country.

Officials updated the official schedules to shift the designated materials from the previous classification to a restricted status. This shift alters how commercial entities handle discarded battery components and related waste streams. The regulatory update applies nationwide to all relevant stakeholders operating within the recycling and manufacturing sectors.

India halts outgoing shipments of primary battery waste and scrap materials.

Why it matters

The Directorate General of Foreign Trade has amended the export policy for waste and scrap of primary cells, batteries and electric accumulators, moving the product from the 'Free' to the 'Prohibited' category. This regulatory change immediately halts outbound shipments of these specific materials, altering compliance requirements for domestic handlers and processors.