Aluminum fell to 2,588.10 USD/T on July 31, 2025, down 0.73% from the previous day. Over the past month, Aluminum's price has fallen 0.54%, but it is still 12.72% higher than a year ago, according to trading on a contract for difference (CFD) that tracks the benchmark market for this commodity. Aluminum - values, historical data, forecasts and news - updated on July of 2025.

The annual producer price index of aluminum scrap in the United States averaged ***** in 2023, with 1982 used as the base year (1982 = 100). This represented a year-over-year decrease of ** percent. The previous year had seen the highest figure recorded since the turn of the century.

Get the latest insights on price movement and trend analysis of Aluminium Scrap in different regions across the world (Asia, Europe, North America, Latin America, and the Middle East Africa).

Graph and download economic data for Producer Price Index by Commodity: Metals and Metal Products: Aluminum Base Scrap (WPU102302) from Jan 1960 to Jun 2025 about aluminum, metals, commodities, PPI, inflation, price index, indexes, price, and USA.

Learn about the historical fluctuations in scrap aluminum prices and the factors that influence them. Discover how the COVID-19 pandemic and US-China trade war impacted prices and the expected future trends. Also, find out how recycling can benefit the environment and economy in aluminum production.

The average price of aluminum has fluctuated in recent years, and since 2020 it has increased significantly. In 2024, the average price of the metal was 2,419 U.S. dollars per metric ton, compared to 1,704 U.S. dollars in 2020.

United States - Producer Price Index by Commodity: Metals and Metal Products: Aluminum Base Scrap was 355.00200 Index 1982=100 in March of 2025, according to the United States Federal Reserve. Historically, United States - Producer Price Index by Commodity: Metals and Metal Products: Aluminum Base Scrap reached a record high of 357.65200 in April of 2022 and a record low of 28.20000 in November of 1962. Trading Economics provides the current actual value, an historical data chart and related indicators for United States - Producer Price Index by Commodity: Metals and Metal Products: Aluminum Base Scrap - last updated from the United States Federal Reserve on July of 2025.

Iron and steel scrap prices in the United States stood at around *** U.S. dollars per metric ton in 2024, down from *** dollars per ton a year earlier. This is the fourth consecutive annual decrease recorded. Steel scrap consumption The majority of domestic steel industry scrap consumption is from manufacturers of raw steel, and steel castings. These raw materials are used to produce steel products that are used for appliances, construction, machinery, and transportation, among other industry uses. Only small amounts of steel scrap were used for the production of ferroalloys, copper precipitation, and the chemical industry. Recycling scrap Recycled iron and steel scrap materials have been essential for the production of new steel and cast iron products. Vehicles are one of the largest sources of old steel scrap used for recycling and nearly 100 percent of cars are recycled for their scrap material. It is expected that the recycling rate for scrap materials from appliances and construction purposes should rise, especially as public interest for recycling grows and profitability increases.

Snapshot img

Aluminum Scrap Recycling Market Size 2025-2029

The aluminum scrap recycling market size is forecast to increase by USD 4.38 billion, at a CAGR of 10.7% between 2024 and 2029. The market is driven by increasing environmental concerns, with the focus on reducing energy consumption and minimizing pollution.

Major Market Trends & Insights

APAC dominated the market and accounted for a 60% share in 2023.
The market is expected to grow significantly in North America region as well over the forecast period.
Based on the End-user, the casting segment led the market and was valued at USD 3.99 billion of the global revenue in 2023.
Based on the Type, the old scrap segment accounted for the largest market revenue share in 2023.

Market Size & Forecast

Market Opportunities: USD 6.63 Billion
Future Opportunities: USD 4.38 Billion
CAGR (2024-2029): 10.7%
APAC: Largest market in 2023

This trend is leading to a growing demand for sustainable recycling methods, such as the introduction of Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) and solid-state recycling. However, a significant challenge facing the market is the decreasing recycling rate of used beverage cans. This trend poses an obstacle for market growth, as these cans represent a substantial portion of the aluminum scrap supply. Producers must innovate and implement effective strategies to address this challenge and ensure a consistent supply of scrap material.

Additionally, the adoption of advanced recycling technologies and the expansion into emerging markets offer opportunities for market expansion and growth. Companies in the aluminum scrap recycling industry must remain agile and responsive to these trends and challenges to capitalize on market opportunities and maintain a competitive edge.

What will be the Size of the Aluminum Scrap Recycling Market during the forecast period?

Explore in-depth regional segment analysis with market size data - historical 2019-2023 and forecasts 2025-2029 - in the full report.
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The market continues to evolve, driven by the ever-increasing demand for sustainable industrial practices and the need for energy efficiency. Industrial scrap processing plays a pivotal role in this dynamic industry, with continuous advancements in contamination removal techniques and recycling plant automation. Energy efficiency metrics and emissions reduction strategies are key priorities for recycling facilities, leading to innovations such as eddy current separation and chemical composition analysis for material characterization. Baling press optimization and logistics and transportation solutions streamline the recycling process, while material traceability systems ensure the quality and purity of reclaimed aluminum. Air classification technology and waste stream management are essential components of the metal recovery process, enabling the separation of various alloys through alloy separation methods. The automotive segment is the second largest segment of the end-user and was valued at USD 2.11 billion in 2023.

Secondary aluminum production facilities employ process optimization strategies and quality control procedures to maintain high standards. Aluminum scrap sorting employs density separation methods and shredder technology advancements to maximize efficiency and reduce water usage. Particle size analysis is crucial for ensuring the optimal size and shape of recycled aluminum for various applications, including aluminum can recycling and end-of-life vehicle recycling. Scrap metal pricing remains a significant factor in the market, with fluctuations influenced by supply and demand dynamics. The aluminum scrap recycling industry is expected to grow by approximately 5% annually, as businesses and consumers increasingly recognize the importance of sustainable production and recycling practices.

For instance, a leading recycling facility implemented a new magnetic separation system, resulting in a 20% increase in the recovery of valuable aluminum alloys. This innovation not only improved the plant's efficiency but also reduced its environmental impact through emissions reduction strategies and water usage reduction.

How is this Aluminum Scrap Recycling Industry segmented?

The aluminum scrap recycling industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD million' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments.

End-user

  Casting
  Automotive
  Construction
  Packaging
  Aerospace
  Electronics
  Machinery/Equipment


Type

  Old scrap
  New scrap
  Aluminum Foil Scrap
  Aluminum Ingot Scrap


Alloy Type

  Wrought Alloy
  Casting Alloy
  Specific Alloy Series
  Unialloys


Geography

  North America

    US
    Canada


  Europe

    France
    Germany
    Italy
    UK


  Middle East and Africa

    UAE

Learn about the factors affecting the going rate of scrap aluminum, current prices, and tips for getting the best price for your aluminum scrap as its market continues to trend upward.

United States - Producer Price Index by Commodity: Metals and Metal Products: Other Old Aluminum Base Scrap was 191.88700 Index Dec 1986=100 in April of 2023, according to the United States Federal Reserve. Historically, United States - Producer Price Index by Commodity: Metals and Metal Products: Other Old Aluminum Base Scrap reached a record high of 233.90000 in June of 2008 and a record low of 94.50000 in June of 2020. Trading Economics provides the current actual value, an historical data chart and related indicators for United States - Producer Price Index by Commodity: Metals and Metal Products: Other Old Aluminum Base Scrap - last updated from the United States Federal Reserve on July of 2025.

Graph and download economic data for Producer Price Index by Commodity: Metals and Metal Products: Used Beverage Can Scrap (WPU10230205) from Dec 1986 to Jun 2025 about used, aluminum, beverages, metals, commodities, PPI, inflation, price index, indexes, price, and USA.

South America Aluminium Scrap market size is USD 407.61 million in 2024 and will expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.4% from 2024 to 2031.

According to Cognitive Market Research, the global Aluminium Scrap market size is USD 8152.2 million in 2024 and will expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.00% from 2024 to 2031.

North America held the major market of more than 40% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 3260.88 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.2% from 2024 to 2031.
Europe accounted for a share of over 30% of the global market size of USD 2445.66 million.
Asia Pacific held the market of around 23% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 1875.01 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10.0% from 2024 to 2031.
Latin America market of more than 5% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 407.61 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.4% from 2024 to 2031.
Middle East and Africa held the major market of around 2% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 163.04 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.7% from 2024 to 2031.
The Aluminium held the highest Aluminium Scrap market revenue share in 2024.

Market Dynamics of Aluminium Scrap Market

Key Drivers of Aluminium Scrap Market

Rising Primary Aluminium Prices to Increase the Demand Globally

The price fluctuation of raw aluminum greatly impacts the demand for aluminum scrap. The demand for aluminum scrap increases because companies look for more affordable options when basic aluminum prices rise. This change happens because it becomes more cost-effective to employ scrap aluminum in manufacturing operations rather than paying more for primary aluminum. As a result, industries are increasingly using aluminum waste as a replacement material to save costs without sacrificing production efficiency. As a result, changes in primary aluminum pricing significantly impact market dynamics, with increased prices frequently resulting in an increase in the demand for aluminum scrap across various industrial sectors.

Growing Demand for Aluminum to Propel Market Growth

The need for aluminum scrap is rising due to the growing demand for aluminum in various industries, including packaging, construction, and transportation. The need for scrap aluminum increases with industries' continued reliance on aluminum due to its lightweight, strong, and recyclable qualities to meet production demands. Since aluminum is a necessary component of many manufacturing processes, there is a direct relationship between the demand for aluminum goods and the demand for aluminum scrap. This pattern emphasizes how crucial aluminum scrap is to maintaining production cycles and satisfying the growing need for aluminum across various industrial applications.

Restraint Factors of Aluminium Scrap Market

Strict Quality Requirements to Limit the Sales

Strict quality standards present a major obstacle in the market for aluminum scrap. Every application has unique requirements for quality, and not meeting these requirements can lead to rejection and financial losses for processors and collectors alike. Proper sorting and minimal contamination are essential to guarantee that scrap satisfies the requirements for usage in manufacturing processes. It is imperative to allocate resources toward sophisticated sorting technology and enforce stringent quality control methods to minimize the likelihood of rejection and preserve the integrity of the aluminum scrap supply chain. Strict adherence to quality standards protects against monetary losses and builds industry confidence and dependability, ensuring aluminum scrap's continued viability as a valuable resource.

Ultimately, as the industry seeks equilibrium between scientific innovation and practical utility, the challenge posed by limited stability becomes a catalyst for refinement, prompting the Aluminium Scrap market to navigate the delicate balance between the inherent characteristics of these compounds and the demands of robust sales and accessibility.

Impact of COVID-19 on the Aluminium Scrap Market

The COVID-19 outbreak has significantly impacted the market for aluminum scrap. Global supply chain disruptions, a decline in production, and varying demand have presented the sector with formidable obstacles. Movement restrictions and lockdown measures made collecting and processing scrap more difficult, affecting the supply of raw mate...

According to Cognitive Market Research, the global Aluminum Scrap Recycling market size will be USD 5814.2 million in 2024. It will expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.80% from 2024 to 2031.

North America held the major market share for more than 40% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 2325.68 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.0% from 2024 to 2031.
Europe accounted for a market share of over 30% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 1744.26 million.
Asia Pacific held a market share of around 23% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 1337.27 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10.8% from 2024 to 2031.
Latin America had a market share of more than 5% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 290.71 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.2% from 2024 to 2031.
Middle East and Africa had a market share of around 2% of the global revenue and was estimated at a market size of USD 116.28 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.5% from 2024 to 2031.
The Diesel Generator category is the fastest-growing segment of the Aluminum Scrap Recycling industry

Market Dynamics of Aluminum Scrap Recycling Market

Key Drivers for Aluminum Scrap Recycling Market

Increased Application of Aluminium in The Automobile Industry to Boost Market Growth

Aluminum is prized for its lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and malleable characteristics. Its widespread application in industries such as automotive, aerospace, construction, and packaging has led to a significant rise in the demand for aluminum products. A recent study commissioned by European Aluminium and conducted by Ducker Carlisle reveals that the average aluminum usage in European cars has surged by 18%, rising from 174 kg in 2019 to 205 kg in 2022. The study forecasts this upward trend will continue, with the average aluminum content expected to reach 237 kg by 2026 (+15.6%) and 256 kg per vehicle by 2030 (+24.9%). Electric vehicles (EVs) are particularly driving this increase; in 2022, the average battery electric vehicle (BEV) in Europe contained 283 kg of aluminum, compared to just 169 kg in petrol or diesel internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. Furthermore, the average aluminum content in electric vehicles is projected to grow by 9.5%, reaching 310 kg between 2022 and 2026. The automotive industry is increasingly turning to aluminum to enhance fuel efficiency and reduce vehicle weight, which in turn elevates the demand for recycled aluminum as manufacturers strive to achieve sustainability goals and comply with regulatory requirements.

Increased Urbanization and Infrastructure Development to Drive Market Growth

Rapid urbanization is contributing to a heightened consumption of aluminum across various applications, including packaging and construction materials. Globally, an increasing percentage of the population is residing in urban areas. In 2012, 52.5% of the population lived in cities, and this figure was projected to rise to 56.9% by 2022. Urbanization rates are generally higher in developed countries (79.7% in 2022) compared to developing nations (52.3%). In least-developed countries (LDCs), the urban population remains a minority, accounting for only 35.8%. As cities grow, the volume of aluminum scrap generated also increases, creating additional opportunities for recycling. In the construction sector, every $100,000 spent on residential and non-residential projects results in an increase of approximately 126 pounds and 183 pounds of aluminum usage, respectively. Non-residential construction represented over 60% of the 2.5 billion pounds of aluminum utilized in building and construction applications in 2022. Large-scale infrastructure projects frequently incorporate aluminum in both construction and transportation, leading to a significant amount of scrap that can be efficiently recycled, thus driving demand for recycling services.

Restraint Factor for the Aluminum Scrap Recycling Market

Quality and Contamination Issues Will Limit Market Growth

The presence of non-aluminum materials in scrap can significantly diminish the quality of recycled aluminum. Contaminants such as plastics, other metals, and hazardous substances can complicate the recycling process and reduce the market value of the final product. Aluminum scrap is...

In 2024, the average market spot price of an aluminum ingot was estimated at 1.3 U.S. dollars per pound. Throughout the indicated period, this was by far the highest spot price for aluminum ingots. The fluctuations in aluminum prices can have far-reaching effects on the economy, influencing costs for products ranging from beverage cans to automotive parts. Production of aluminum
The primary production of aluminum in the United States has experienced fluctuations recently, with an estimated production volume of 750,000 metric tons in 2023. The primary production process involves the melting of alumina into pure aluminum. While the United States is one of the top 10 producers of primary aluminum, China is leading the way in terms of aluminum smelter production, with a production volume of 43 million metric tons in 2023.  Price comparison with other base metals The pricing of materials is influenced by various elements, such as manufacturing techniques, availability, and demand in diverse industries. In 2023, of the various base metals, tin was priced approximately at 14 U.S. dollars per pound and was the highest priced base metal at that time. In contrast, aluminum had the fourth highest price that year.

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Snapshot img

Scrap Metal Recycling Market Size 2025-2029

The scrap metal recycling market size is forecast to increase by USD 20.39 billion at a CAGR of 4.5% between 2024 and 2029.

The market is experiencing significant growth, driven by increasing environmental and sustainability pressures. Governments and businesses worldwide are recognizing the importance of reducing waste and minimizing the carbon footprint, leading to a rise in demand for scrap metal recycling. Advanced sorting technologies and AI-driven recycling processes are revolutionizing the industry, enabling more efficient and effective recovery of valuable metals from scrap. Machining shop equipment, including chip conveyors, coolant filtration systems, balers, shredders, and granulators, plays a crucial role in metal machining operations by collecting, transporting, and disposing of metal chips and debris. However, the market also faces challenges.
Producers must invest in advanced technologies and implement rigorous quality control measures to mitigate these challenges and maintain the integrity of their recycled products. Companies that can navigate these challenges effectively and capitalize on the growing demand for scrap metal recycling will be well-positioned to succeed in this dynamic market. Contamination and quality issues persist as a major obstacle. The presence of impurities in scrap metal can impact the quality of the recycled product and reduce its market value. The recycling system's integration into various industries, such as construction materials, automotive, and electronics, contributes to waste management initiatives and reduces the reliance on virgin materials.

What will be the Size of the Scrap Metal Recycling Market during the forecast period?

Explore in-depth regional segment analysis with market size data - historical 2019-2023 and forecasts 2025-2029 - in the full report.
Request Free Sample

The market is characterized by intricate global supply chains and a growing emphasis on sustainability reporting. Recycling infrastructure plays a crucial role in optimizing price and ensuring traceability of alloy compositions through the use of big data and data analytics. Artificial intelligence (AI) and sensor technologies facilitate material passports, compliance reporting, and circular economy initiatives. Policy analysis and predictive modeling aid in risk management and due diligence, while stakeholder engagement and inventory management contribute to carbon offsetting. Environmental impact assessments and compliance audits are essential for melt shops and metal remediation processes.

Scrap metal classification, digital twinning, and metal grading are essential for fraud detection and demand forecasting. Remote monitoring and public awareness campaigns further enhance the transparency and efficiency of scrap metal trading. Aluminum alloys, heat sinks, and radiators are prominent in the technology sector, while aluminum cans and food containers are common in the consumer goods industry.

How is this Scrap Metal Recycling Industry segmented?

The scrap metal recycling industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD million' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments.

Material

  Ferrous metals
  Non-ferrous metals


Application

  Construction
  Industrial goods
  Automotive
  Consumer goods


Method

  Mechanical recycling
  Thermal recycling
  Advanced tech
  Chemical recycling


Geography

  North America

    US


  Europe

    Germany
    Russia
    UK


  Middle East and Africa

    Turkey


  APAC

    China
    India
    Japan
    South Korea


  South America

    Brazil


  Rest of World (ROW)

By Material Insights

The Ferrous metals segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period. The market is driven by the extensive utilization of ferrous metals, particularly steel and cast iron, in various industries. These metals, recognized for their iron content, are recycled in significant quantities through various processes. Ferrous scrap is categorized into three primary sources: obsolete scrap, prompt scrap, and heavy melting steel (HMS). Obsolete scrap emerges from end-of-life products, such as decommissioned vehicles, discarded appliances, and dismantled infrastructure. Prompt scrap, also known as industrial scrap, is generated as a byproduct of manufacturing processes, including steel mill offcuts and machining residues. HMS encompasses large steel components, including beams, structural frameworks, and shredded automotive bodies.

Optical sorting technology plays a crucial role in the recycling process, ensuring efficient separation of different types of metals. The recycling industry's environmental footprint is a growing concern, with carbon emission

United States - Producer Price Index by Commodity: Metals and Metal Products: Borings, Turnings, and Other New Aluminum Base Scrap was 159.30000 Index Dec 1986=100 in October of 2018, according to the United States Federal Reserve. Historically, United States - Producer Price Index by Commodity: Metals and Metal Products: Borings, Turnings, and Other New Aluminum Base Scrap reached a record high of 342.80000 in April of 2008 and a record low of 100.00000 in December of 1986. Trading Economics provides the current actual value, an historical data chart and related indicators for United States - Producer Price Index by Commodity: Metals and Metal Products: Borings, Turnings, and Other New Aluminum Base Scrap - last updated from the United States Federal Reserve on July of 2025.

According to Cognitive Market Research, the global metal recycling market size will be USD 559351.8 million in 2025. It will expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.0% from 2025 to 2033.

North America held the major market share for more than 37% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 206960.17 million in 2025 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 2.8% from 2025 to 2033.
Europe accounted for a market share of over 29% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 162212.02 million.
APAC held a market share of around 24% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 134244.43 million in 2025 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.0% from 2025 to 2033.
South America has a market share of more than 3.8% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 21255.37 million in 2025 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.0% from 2025 to 2033.
Middle East had a market share of around 4% of the global revenue and was estimated at a market size of USD 22374.07 million in 2025 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.3% from 2025 to 2033.
Africa had a market share of around 2.2% of the global revenue and was estimated at a market size of USD 12305.74 million in 2025 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.7% from 2025 to 2033.
Aluminum is the fastest growing segment of the metal recycling market industry

Market Dynamics of Metal Recycling Market

Key Drivers for Metal Recycling Market

Rising Focus on the Conservation of Natural Resources is Expected to Boost Market Growth

The growing global emphasis on conserving natural resources is a key driver for the metal recycling market. As mining activities deplete finite ore reserves and damage ecosystems, governments and industries are increasingly prioritizing recycling to reduce raw material dependency. Recycling metals such as steel, aluminium, and copper significantly cuts down on energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions compared to primary production. This shift supports circular economy initiatives and sustainability goals, especially in the construction, automotive, and electronics industries. Additionally, public awareness, stricter environmental regulations, and economic incentives further promote recycling as a resource-efficient alternative, reinforcing its role in preserving Earth's natural capital. In December 2022, ArcelorMittal finalized the acquisition of Riwald Recycling ("Riwald"), a cutting-edge ferrous scrap metal recycling company in the Netherlands, as part of its decarbonization strategy. The company also acquired Italpannelli Germany, a German manufacturer of insulation panels, enhancing its geographic reach and bolstering the product offerings of ArcelorMittal Downstream Solutions' construction division

https://corporate.arcelormittal.com/media/news-articles/arcelormittal-acquires-dutch-scrap-metal-recycling-business-riwald-recycling#:~:text=ArcelorMittal%20today%20announces%20it%20has%20acquired%20Riwald,expected%20by%20the%20end%20of%20January%202023.”

Reduction in Greenhouse Gas Emissions to Boost Market Growth

Reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions is a major driver of accelerating growth in the metal recycling market. Traditional metal production, especially from virgin ores, is highly energy-intensive and a significant contributor to CO? and other GHG emissions. In contrast, recycling metals like aluminium, steel, and copper uses significantly less energy—up to 95% less in some cases—thereby drastically lowering emissions. Governments, industries, and environmental organizations are increasingly supporting recycling initiatives to meet climate goals and emission reduction targets. This push aligns with global commitments under the Paris Agreement and corporate sustainability strategies, making metal recycling a critical component in the fight against climate change.

Restraint Factor for the Metal Recycling Market

Fluctuating Raw Material Prices Will Limit Market Growth

Fluctuating raw material prices pose a significant restraint on the metal recycling market. Volatility in the prices of primary metals, such as copper, aluminium, and steel, directly impacts the profitability of recycled metal products. When virgin metal prices drop, recycled alternatives may become less economically attractive, leading to reduced demand and lower recycling ...