The Ministry of Trade and Industry wishes to address recent concerns raised by the Trinidad and Tobago Scrap Iron Dealers Association (TTSIDA) as reported in the local media on Wednesday, February 19, 2025, regarding inter alia, the time taken to acquire an export license for Scrap Metal.
Since the reopening of the industry on February 24, 2023, the Trade Licence Unit has processed eight hundred and fifty-three (853) export licence applications for scrap metal and facilitated one thousand three hundred and twenty-five (1,325) Notices of Intent and loadings.
The Trade Licence Unit has indicated that an application for an export license for scrap metal can be processed in as little as one (1) day. However, any delays experienced by scrap metal dealers are as a result of failures to comply with the laws and regulations, including the submission of incomplete or inaccurate documentation.
Upon receipt of an application, the TLU conducts a thorough review to ensure accuracy and compliance with the relevant legal and regulatory requirements. In cases where applications are incomplete, contain mismatched figures between the license request and the scrap metal record ledger, include incorrect tariff codes, or lack invoices from the consignee, queries are issued to applicants for rectification and resubmission. The processing of an application can only continue upon receipt of a complete and corrected submission.
The Trade Licence Unit remains committed to working closely with all applicants to facilitate a smooth and efficient process. Additionally, the Ministry continues to enhance the efficiency of the legislative and regulatory framework, as demonstrated by the launch of two new e-services on August 30, 2024, for the application of Scrap Metal Collector’s Licenses and Scrap Metal Dealer’s Licenses.
Further improvements will be introduced in March 2025 with the launch of the following e-services:
- Permit for Shipment/Alteration of Scrap Metal
- Scrap Metal Permit for the Shipment of Broken Machinery Direct from the Place Where Stored
- Scrap Metal Notice of Intention to Load and Fit for Shipping Certificate
The Ministry of Trade and Industry remains dedicated to fostering a transparent and efficient process for all stakeholders in the scrap metal industry, while ensuring compliance with national legislation and regulations.
