Copper Scrap Price Trend, Index and Forecast

Track the latest insights on copper scrap price trend and forecast with detailed analysis of regional fluctuations and market dynamics across North America, Latin America, Central Europe, Western Europe, Eastern Europe, Middle East, North Africa, West Africa, Central and Southern Africa, Central Asia, Southeast Asia, South Asia, East Asia, and Oceania.

Copper Scrap Prices Outlook Q1 2026

• USA: USD 6946/MT
• China: USD 7682/MT
• Germany: USD 9118/MT
• France: USD 9038/MT
• India: USD 9493/MT

Copper Scrap Price Chart

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During the first quarter of 2026, the copper scrap prices in the USA reached 6946 USD/MT in March. The market recorded an upward trend supported by steady demand from the construction and electrical sectors. Scrap availability remained relatively tight due to controlled collection rates and stable recycling activity. Domestic consumption improved, particularly from manufacturing industries, which supported procurement activity. Export demand also contributed to supply tightening, while inventory levels remained moderate. During the first quarter of 2026, the copper scrap prices in China reached 7682 USD/MT in March. The market experienced a moderate increase driven by steady demand from the electronics and manufacturing sectors. Import flows remained stable, ensuring consistent availability across the domestic market. Recycling activity supported supply, although demand from downstream industries strengthened consumption. Inventory levels remained controlled, encouraging procurement among buyers. Additionally, stable industrial activity supported price growth. During the first quarter of 2026, the copper scrap prices in Germany reached 9118 USD/MT in March. The market observed an upward trend supported by firm demand from the automotive and construction sectors. Supply conditions remained balanced, although scrap collection rates showed limited expansion. Import flows ensured availability, while inventory levels remained adequate. Consumption patterns remained stable, encouraging procurement activity. Buyers maintained steady purchasing strategies, contributing to gradual price increases. During the first quarter of 2026, the copper scrap prices in France reached 9038 USD/MT in March. The market recorded a moderate increase driven by steady demand from industrial and electrical applications. Supply availability remained consistent due to stable recycling activity and import flows. Inventory levels were maintained at sufficient levels, supporting continuous availability. Consumption patterns remained firm, encouraging procurement activity among buyers. During the first quarter of 2026, the copper scrap prices in India reached 9493 USD/MT in March. The market experienced a gradual increase supported by steady demand from the infrastructure and manufacturing sectors. Import dependence influenced supply dynamics, although availability remained stable due to consistent inflows. Recycling activity contributed to domestic supply, while inventory levels remained balanced. Buyers followed cautious procurement strategies, contributing to a firm pricing trend.

Copper Scrap Prices Outlook Q4 2025

• USA: USD 6765/MT
• China: USD 7536/MT
• Germany: USD 8940/MT
• France: USD 8874/MT
• India: USD 9317/MT

During the fourth quarter of 2025, the copper scrap prices in the USA reached 6765 USD/MT in December. Prices moved upward as demand from secondary smelters and wire rod manufacturers strengthened. Additionally, improved activity across construction and electrical segments supported higher scrap offtake. Moreover, procurement decisions reflected the need to secure sufficient feedstock amid tightening availability of higher-quality scrap grades. During the fourth quarter of 2025, the copper scrap prices in China reached 7536 USD/MT in December. Prices moved downward as consumption from secondary processing units and manufacturing operations softened. Furthermore, adequate domestic scrap availability and moderated industrial output reduced sourcing pressure. In addition, intake volumes were adjusted in line with inventory positions and short-term production requirements. During the fourth quarter of 2025, the copper scrap prices in Germany reached 8940 USD/MT in December. Prices moved upward supported by stable demand from secondary smelting operations and copper alloy manufacturing. Moreover, consistent production schedules across electrical and industrial components sustained scrap consumption. Additionally, greater emphasis was placed on securing premium grades suitable for continuous processing. During the fourth quarter of 2025, the copper scrap prices in France reached 8874 USD/MT in December. Prices increased as recycling activity and downstream copper product manufacturing gained momentum. Furthermore, limited availability of high-grade scrap influenced sourcing strategies. In addition, procurement activity focused on maintaining feedstock continuity for processing facilities operating at steady utilization levels. During the fourth quarter of 2025, the copper scrap prices in India reached 9317 USD/MT in December. Prices moved downward as demand from secondary smelters and alloy producers moderated. Moreover, import availability and sufficient on-hand inventories eased immediate sourcing requirements. Additionally, procurement volumes were aligned closely with measured downstream activity and short-term consumption visibility.

Copper Scrap Prices Outlook Q3 2025

• USA: USD 6251/MT
• China: USD 7630/MT
• Germany: USD 8642/MT
• France: USD 8526/MT
• India: USD 9412/MT

During the third quarter of 2025, the copper scrap prices in the USA reached 6251 USD/MT in September. The price increase was largely influenced by strong demand from the electrical and construction sectors, coupled with tight supply from domestic scrap collection channels. Rising transportation costs, port handling charges, and compliance costs for environmental standards further supported upward price movement. Seasonal maintenance in key domestic smelting plants limited output, while fluctuations in international shipping rates for imported copper inputs added additional cost pressures. During the third quarter of 2025, the copper scrap prices in China reached 7630 USD/MT in September. Prices declined as a result of reduced domestic demand in industrial manufacturing and slowdowns in construction activity. Local collection volumes stabilized, but transportation and logistics efficiency improved, keeping cost increments minimal. Currency adjustments and favorable import tariffs provided slight relief, offsetting some cost pressures from energy and port handling fees. Regulatory compliance for recycled materials and environmental mandates remained consistent, contributing to a stable supply scenario. During the third quarter of 2025, the copper scrap prices in Germany reached 8642 USD/MT in September. Prices experienced a slight decrease due to moderated demand from automotive and electrical manufacturing sectors. Domestic scrap collection improved, alleviating supply shortages, while energy costs and compliance with EU environmental regulations influenced operational expenditures. Import logistics remained steady, with minimal fluctuations in freight and customs duties. During the third quarter of 2025, the copper scrap prices in France reached 8526 USD/MT in September. Price growth was supported by increased consumption in construction, electrical, and manufacturing industries. Limited domestic scrap availability and higher port handling fees contributed to upward pressures. Transportation costs and regional energy price trends added incremental cost effects. Compliance with EU safety and recycling regulations also increased operational expenditures. During the third quarter of 2025, the copper scrap prices in India reached 9412 USD/MT in September. Prices declined due to softening demand in infrastructure and electrical manufacturing segments. Domestic collection of scrap improved, enhancing supply availability. Transportation costs and logistics efficiency stabilized, limiting additional price pressures. Regulatory compliance costs and adherence to quality standards for recycled copper also contributed marginally to market dynamics.

Copper Scrap Prices Outlook Q2 2025

• USA: USD 5,826/MT
• China: USD 7,978/MT 
• UK: USD 5,083/MT
• Brazil: USD 8,076/MT 
• Indonesia: USD 7,420/MT

During the second quarter of 2025, the copper scrap prices in the USA reached 5,826 USD/MT in June. In the USA, copper scrap prices in Q2 2025 were influenced by fluctuations in collection volumes from construction, automotive, and electronics recycling sectors. Export activity to Asia, especially China and Vietnam, impacted domestic supply availability. Fuel prices and inland freight costs added pressure to processing margins. Market sentiment around primary copper prices also shaped pricing strategies among scrap dealers and recyclers. During the second quarter of 2025, copper scrap prices in China reached 7,978 USD/MT in June. In China, copper scrap pricing was driven by strong demand from the manufacturing and infrastructure sectors. Import volumes were affected by changes in customs inspection protocols and purity grade requirements. Domestic supply was constrained by limited collection rates and stricter environmental regulations on informal recycling facilities. Exchange rate fluctuations and raw material substitution trends also played a role in market pricing behavior. During the second quarter of 2025, the copper scrap prices in the UK reached 5,083 USD/MT in June. In the UK, copper scrap prices were shaped by collection efficiency across construction demolition, electrical waste recycling, and industrial sectors. Export volumes to the European Union and Asia affected local market tightness. Operational costs rose due to energy pricing and labor availability. Secondary smelters’ demand, combined with volatility in primary copper futures, further influenced scrap market pricing strategies. During the second quarter of 2025, the copper scrap prices in Brazil reached 8,076 USD/MT in June. In Brazil, copper scrap pricing was influenced by demand from the domestic electrical and construction manufacturing sectors. Collection activity varied across urban centers, while export interest from Asian buyers introduced competition for available scrap. Currency movements against the US dollar affected the profitability of international trade. Regulatory oversight on informal recycling operations also impacted the volume and consistency of local scrap supply. During the second quarter of 2025, the copper scrap prices in Indonesia reached 7,420 USD/MT in June. In Indonesia, copper scrap prices were affected by limited domestic processing capacity and strong export demand, particularly from regional buyers. Collection infrastructure in urban and industrial areas influenced supply availability. Import restrictions on mixed and low-grade scrap tightened material flow. Additionally, transportation and port handling costs, along with fluctuations in primary copper benchmarks, influenced scrap pricing trends during the quarter.

Regional Coverage

The report provides a detailed analysis of the market across different regions, each with unique pricing dynamics influenced by localized market conditions, supply chain intricacies, and geopolitical factors. This includes price trends, price forecast and supply and demand trends for each region, along with spot prices by major ports. The report also provides coverage of FOB and CIF prices, as well as the key factors influencing copper scrap prices.

Europe Copper Scrap Price Trend

Q1 2026:

The copper scrap price index in Europe showed a moderate upward trend supported by steady demand from manufacturing and construction sectors. Industrial activity remained stable across major economies, sustaining consumption of recycled copper materials. Supply conditions remained balanced due to consistent scrap collection and steady import flows. Inventory levels were maintained at adequate levels, supporting continuous availability across the region. Buyers maintained regular procurement cycles to ensure supply continuity.

Q4 2025:

As per the copper scrap price index, pricing conditions across Europe strengthened, supported by steady demand from secondary smelting, electrical manufacturing, and alloy production activities. Industrial output levels encouraged consistent scrap offtake, while limited availability of higher-grade material influenced procurement strategies. Buyers emphasized supply reliability, quality consistency, and alignment with processing schedules. Trade flows within the region and logistics coordination supported material movement, with sourcing decisions focused on operational continuity rather than speculative accumulation.

Q3 2025:

During the third quarter of 2025, the copper scrap price index in Europe indicated mixed trends. Strong demand in construction and electrical manufacturing, combined with limited domestic scrap collection, supported upward price pressures. Port handling fees, transportation costs, and energy prices contributed to overall operational expenditures. Regulatory compliance, including EU environmental mandates, also influenced price behavior across Germany and France.

Q2 2025:

As per the copper scrap price index, European copper scrap prices in Q2 2025 were influenced by constrained collection volumes from the construction and electronics sectors, combined with heightened demand from secondary smelters. Export flows to Asia increased competition for available supply. Energy and labor costs added pressure to processing margins, while environmental regulations tightened compliance requirements for scrap handling and cross-border shipments within the European Union. Detailed price information for copper scrap can also be provided for an extensive list of European countries.

Region	Countries Covered
Europe	Germany, France, United Kingdom, Italy, Spain, Russia, Turkey, Netherlands, Poland, Sweden, Belgium, Austria, Ireland, Switzerland, Norway, Denmark, Romania, Finland, Czech Republic, Portugal, and Greece, among other European countries.

North America Copper Scrap Price Trend

Q1 2026:

The copper scrap price index in North America reflected moderate growth driven by steady demand from the electrical and infrastructure sectors. Recycling activity remained consistent, ensuring stable supply availability. Inventory levels were controlled, preventing excess accumulation in the market. Consumption patterns remained firm, supporting procurement activity among buyers. Export demand also contributed to tightening supply conditions. Buyers maintained balanced purchasing strategies, contributing to a gradual upward pricing environment across the region.

Q4 2025:

As per the copper scrap price index, pricing conditions in North America firmed as consumption from recycling facilities and downstream copper product manufacturers remained supportive. Additionally, improved activity across construction and electrical applications encouraged regular procurement. Moreover, sourcing strategies prioritized contract-based supply assurance, while inventory planning focused on maintaining sufficient feedstock coverage for uninterrupted secondary processing operations.

Q3 2025:

The copper scrap price index in North America reflected moderate growth. In the USA, rising demand in the construction and electrical sectors coincided with supply limitations from domestic scrap collection channels. Transportation and energy costs, along with regulatory compliance for recycled materials, contributed to increased pricing. Import dynamics and currency stability also affected market conditions.

Q2 2025:

As per the copper scrap price index, in North America, copper scrap pricing was shaped by fluctuations in collection activity across construction, industrial, and municipal recycling channels. Export demand, especially from Southeast Asian countries, affected domestic availability. Fuel price trends and inland transportation constraints influenced logistics costs. Market participants also responded to movements in primary copper futures and changes in federal recycling policy frameworks impacting scrap recovery. Specific copper scrap historical data within the United States and Canada can also be provided.

Region	Countries Covered
North America	United States and Canada

Middle East and Africa Copper Scrap Price Trend

Q1 2026:

The report explores the copper scrap trends and copper scrap chart in the Middle East and Africa, considering factors like regional industrial growth, the availability of natural resources, and geopolitical tensions that uniquely influence market prices.

Q4 2025:

As per copper scrap price chart, the prices in the Middle East and Africa fluctuated due to a complex interplay of factors, primarily driven by supply chain disruptions, seasonal demand shifts, and geopolitical influences.

Q2 2025:

A tight supply from refineries, exacerbated by maintenance rounds and unplanned outages, put pressure on prices. Simultaneously, demand from the agrochemical sector during the planting season contributed to price changes. Region-wise data and information on specific countries within these regions can also be provided.

Region	Countries Covered
Middle East & Africa	Saudi Arabia, UAE, Israel, Iran, South Africa, Nigeria, Oman, Kuwait, Qatar, Iraq, Egypt, Algeria, and Morocco, among other Middle Eastern and African countries.

Asia Pacific Copper Scrap Price Trend

Q1 2026:

In the Asia Pacific region, copper scrap prices showed a moderate upward trend driven by steady demand from manufacturing and electronics sectors. Import flows remained consistent, ensuring adequate supply availability across key markets. Recycling activity supported domestic supply, while inventory levels remained controlled. Consumption patterns remained firm, encouraging procurement activity. Buyers maintained steady purchasing strategies, contributing to gradual price increases across the region.

Q4 2025:

Across Asia Pacific, copper scrap pricing conditions weakened as demand from secondary smelting, manufacturing, and alloy production lost momentum. Adequate availability of scrap material reduced procurement urgency. Buyers structured sourcing strategies around inventory visibility, cost management, and short-cycle purchasing, maintaining flexibility amid moderated downstream consumption across industrial and manufacturing applications.

Q3 2025:

In Q3 2025, Asia Pacific copper scrap prices exhibited noticeable regional disparities due to a combination of demand, supply, and regulatory factors. Elevated consumption in electrical, electronics, and industrial manufacturing sectors exerted strong upward pressure on pricing, particularly in markets with expanding infrastructure and production activities. However, the availability of copper scrap from domestic collection channels and import flows helped to moderate price volatility across different countries, preventing sharper increases.

Q2 2025:

In the Asia Pacific region, copper scrap prices were impacted by strong regional demand from electrical, manufacturing, and infrastructure sectors. China’s evolving import policies and quality standards influenced regional trade dynamics. Domestic collection systems in emerging economies faced capacity challenges. Currency volatility and freight rate fluctuations added to pricing variability, while seasonal trends in construction activity shaped downstream consumption patterns. This copper scrap price analysis can be expanded to include a comprehensive list of countries within the region.

Region	Countries Covered
Asia Pacific	China, India, Indonesia, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Japan, Philippines, Vietnam, Thailand, South Korea, Malaysia, Nepal, Taiwan, Sri Lanka, Hongkong, Singapore, Australia, and New Zealand, among other Asian countries.

Latin America Copper Scrap Price Trend

Q1 2026:

Latin America's copper scrap market is predominantly influenced by its rich natural reserves, particularly in countries like Chile and Brazil. However, political instability and inconsistent regulatory frameworks can lead to significant volatility in copper scrap prices.

Q3 2025:

Infrastructure challenges and logistical inefficiencies often impact the supply chain, affecting Latin America’s ability to meet international demand consistently. Moreover, the copper scrap price index, economic fluctuations, and currency devaluation are critical factors that need to be considered when analyzing copper scrap pricing trends in this region.

Q2 2025:

In Latin America, particularly Brazil, copper scrap pricing was affected by limited formal collection infrastructure and growing demand from domestic manufacturing industries. Export activity to Asia intensified competition for locally sourced scrap. Currency movements and inflationary pressures influenced operational costs for recyclers. Government oversight of informal recycling channels, along with regional trade logistics and labor availability, also played key roles in determining market pricing. This comprehensive review can be extended to include specific countries within Latin America.

Region	Countries Covered
Latin America	Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, Columbia, Chile, Ecuador, and Peru, among other Latin American countries.

Copper Scrap Pricing Report, Market Analysis, and News

IMARC's latest publication, “Copper Scrap Prices, Trend, Chart, Demand, Market Analysis, News, Historical and Forecast Data Report 2026 Edition,” presents a detailed examination of the copper scrap market, providing insights into both global and regional trends that are shaping prices. This report delves into the spot price of copper scrap at major ports and analyzes the composition of prices, including FOB and CIF terms. It also presents detailed copper scrap prices trend analysis by region, covering North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and Middle East and Africa. The factors affecting copper scrap pricing, such as the dynamics of supply and demand, geopolitical influences, and sector specific developments, are thoroughl✤y explored. This comprehensive report helps stakeholders stay informed with the latest market news, regulatory updates, and technological progress, facilitating informed strategi🅘c decision-making and forecasting.

Copper Scrap Industry Analysis

The global copper scrap industry size reached 10.8 Million Tons in 2025. By 2034, IMARC Group expects the market to reach 13.3 Million Tons, at a projected CAGR of 2.28% during 2026-2034. The market is🌸 primarily driven by the increased recycling i൩nitiatives, infrastructure development, energy efficiency regulations, and rising industrial consumption.

Latest News and Developments:

• October 2025: Aurubis expanded its global recycling footprint by commissioning a new copper smelter in Georgia, complementing its existing operations across Europe. The new smelter is expected to enhance Aurubis’ capacity for processing recycled copper, improving supply chain resilience and reducing reliance on primary copper mining.

Product Description

Copper scrap refers to discarded or obsolete copper material, which can be recycled and used in various applications. The industrial uses for copper scrap range from electronics to construction and renewable energy to automotive manufacturing. Some of the common scrap materials include copper wire, pipes, electrical components, tools, and mechanical joints. The process of obtaining copper scrap includes collecting, sorting, and melting down the copper so that impurities can be removed. Following these steps, a high quality recycled copper is produced which still retains the same properties of the metal, such as high electrical conduction capacity and corrosion resistance. In addition to helping meet the ever increasing international need for copper, efficient recycling of copper scrap gives significant benefits to the environment by saving natural resources. Copper recycling helps in saving energy consumption and reduces greenhouse gas emissions, hence supporting sustainable development programs and helping in conservation.

Report Coverage

Key Attributes	Details
Product Name	Copper Scrap
Report Features	Exploration of Historical Trends and Market Outlook, Industry Demand, Industry Supply, Gap Analysis, Challenges, Copper Scrap Price Analysis, and Segment-Wise Assessment.
Currency/Units	US$ (Data can also be provided in local currency) or Metric Tons
Region/Countries Covered	The current coverage includes analysis at the global and regional levels only.    Based on your requirements, we can also customize the report and provide specific information for the following countries:    Asia Pacific: China, India, Indonesia, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Japan, Philippines, Vietnam, Thailand, South Korea, Malaysia, Nepal, Taiwan, Sri Lanka, Hongkong, Singapore, Australia, and New Zealand   Europe: Germany, France, United Kingdom, Italy, Spain, Russia, Turkey, Netherlands, Poland, Sweden, Belgium, Austria, Ireland, Switzerland, Norway, Denmark, Romania, Finland, Czech Republic, Portugal and Greece   North America: United States and Canada Latin America: Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, Columbia, Chile, Ecuador, and Peru Middle East & Africa: Saudi Arabia, UAE, Israel, Iran, South Africa, Nigeria, Oman, Kuwait, Qatar, Iraq, Egypt, Algeria, and Morocco The list of countries presented is not exhaustive. Information on additional countries can be provided if required by the client.
Information Covered for Key Suppliers	Company Overview Business Description Recent Trends and Developments
Customization Scope	The report can be customized as per the requirements of the customer
Report Price and Purchase Option	Plan A: Monthly Updates - Annual Subscription Scope Historical Data for the Current Month Forecast for Next Month Total Deliverables Per Year: 12 (One Per Month) Includes: One PDF and Excel datasheet per month, Post Purchase Analyst Support throughout the year Plan B: Quarterly Updates - Annual Subscription Scope Historical Data for the Current Quarter Forecast for Next Quarter Total Deliverables Per Year: 4 (One Per Quarter) Includes: One PDF and Excel datasheet per Quarter, Post Purchase Analyst Support throughout the year Plan C: Biannually Updates - Annual Subscription Scope Historical Data for the Current Half Forecast for the Next Half Total Deliverables Per Year: 2 (One Per 6 Months) Includes: One PDF and Excel datasheet per Half, Post Purchase Analyst Support throughout the year
Post-Sale Analyst Support	360-degree analyst support after report delivery
Delivery Format	PDF and Excel through email (We can also provide the editable version of the report in PPT/Word format on special request)

Key Benefits for Stakeholders:

• IMARC’s report presents a detailed analysis of copper scrap pricing, covering global and regional trends, spot prices at key ports, and a breakdown of ex-works, FOB, and CIF prices.
• The study examines factors affecting copper scrap price trend, including supply-demand shifts and geopolitical impacts, offering insights for informed decision-making.
• The competitive landscape review equips stakeholders with crucial insights into the latest market news, regulatory changes, and technological advancements, ensuring a well-rounded, strategic overview for forecasting and planning.
• IMARC offers various subscription options, including monthly, quarterly, and biannual updates, allowing clients to stay informed with the latest market trends, ongoing developments, and comprehensive market insights. The copper scrap price charts ensure our clients remain at the forefront of the industry.