Aluminum rose to 2,603.55 USD/T on June 30, 2025, up 0.18% from the previous day. Over the past month, Aluminum's price has risen 5.21%, and is up 3.50% compared to the same time last year, 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 June of 2025.

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.

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

The annual producer price index of aluminum scrap in the United States averaged 251.6 in 2023, with 1982 used as the base year (1982 = 100). This represented a year-over-year decrease of 11 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).

The average price of aluminum fluctuated in recent year and increased significantly since 2020. In 2022, the average price was the metal was 2,795 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 June of 2025.

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 experiencing significant growth driven by increasing environmental concerns and the need to reduce energy consumption. The aluminum industry is under pressure to reduce its carbon footprint, making recycling an attractive solution. However, the market faces challenges, including a decrease in the recycling rate of used beverage cans. This trend is due to the proliferation of single-use plastics and the lack of infrastructure for collecting and recycling aluminum scrap effectively. Innovative technologies, such as Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) and solid-state recycling, are revolutionizing the aluminum scrap recycling industry. LIBS enables the precise analysis of aluminum alloys, ensuring the highest quality of recycled material. Solid-state recycling, on the other hand, eliminates the need for melting, reducing energy consumption and emissions. These advancements offer significant opportunities for companies to differentiate themselves and capitalize on the growing demand for sustainable and efficient recycling solutions. To remain competitive, companies must navigate these challenges and seize opportunities. Investing in innovative technologies, expanding collection infrastructure, and collaborating with stakeholders across the value chain can help businesses thrive in this dynamic market. By staying informed of the latest trends and market developments, companies can make informed strategic decisions and effectively navigate the complex landscape of the market.

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

Request Free SampleThe market encompasses various applications, including wind turbines, pharmaceutical packaging, and automotive parts, among others. 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. Post-consumer scrap, such as aluminum beverage cans and food containers, and pre-consumer scrap, including aluminum turnings, shavings, and dross, are crucial sources for aluminum recycling. Aluminum scrap is also used in producing composite materials, wire, batteries, and solar panels. Market dynamics and trends include increasing demand for lightweight and sustainable materials, advancements in recycling technologies, and growing focus on traceability and certification. Aluminum recycling standards and regulations play a significant role in market growth.

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-userCastingAutomotiveConstructionPackagingAerospaceElectronicsMachinery/EquipmentTypeOld scrapNew scrapAluminum Foil ScrapAluminum Ingot ScrapAlloy TypeWrought AlloyCasting AlloySpecific Alloy SeriesUnialloysGeographyNorth AmericaUSCanadaEuropeFranceGermanyItalyUKMiddle East and AfricaUAEAPACChinaIndiaJapanSouth KoreaSouth AmericaBrazil

By End-user Insights

The casting segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.The market is significantly driven by the casting segment, which holds the largest market share. In this process, aluminum scrap is utilized to produce aluminum ingots and slabs. The expanding demand for cast aluminum products in sectors like automotive, aerospace, construction, and consumer goods necessitates the use of recycled aluminum in casting procedures. Advanced casting technologies, including enhanced melting and alloying techniques, facilitate the manufacture of superior quality cast aluminum products using recycled aluminum scrap. Furthermore, the heightened focus on sustainability and environmental regulations is compelling manufacturers to integrate recycled aluminum scrap into casting processes, thereby propelling the growth of this segment. Aluminum alloys, such as aluminum billets and aluminum sheets, are essential raw materials in various industries, including automotive aluminum, aluminum extrusion for building and construction, and aluminum can recycling. The recycling process plays a crucial role in the circular economy, reducing the carbon footprint and preserving natural resources. Metal recycling, including aluminum scrap processing, is a vital component of supply chain management and collection networks. Government incentives and recycling partnerships further bolster the recycling infrastructure, which comprises recycling plants, material recovery facilities, and recycling centers. Technological advancements in recycling technologies, such as

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...

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 May of 2025.

Graph and download economic data for Producer Price Index by Industry: Material Recyclers: Aluminum Base Scrap (PCU42993042993022) from Dec 1986 to Nov 2021 about aluminum, materials, PPI, industry, inflation, price index, indexes, price, and USA.

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: 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 June of 2025.

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.

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

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 ...

According to Cognitive Market Research, the global Scrap Recycling Market market size will be USD XX million in 2025. It will expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of XX% from 2025 to 2031.

North America held the major market share for more than XX% of the global revenue with a market size of USD XX million in 2025 and will grow at a CAGR of XX% from 2025 to 2031. Europe accounted for a market share of over XX% of the global revenue with a market size of USD XX million in 2025 and will grow at a CAGR of XX% from 2025 to 2031. Asia Pacific held a market share of around XX% of the global revenue with a market size of USD XX million in 2025 and will grow at a CAGR of XX% from 2025 to 2031. Latin America had a market share of more than XX% of the global revenue with a market size of USD XX million in 2025 and will grow at a CAGR of XX% from 2025 to 2031. Middle East and Africa had a market share of around XX% of the global revenue and was estimated at a market size of USD XX million in 2025 and will grow at a CAGR of XX% from 2025 to 2031. Key Drivers

"Sustainability and rising demand for recycled metals drive Market growth"

Sustainability is the core driver behind the growth of the scrap metal recycling market. As industries worldwide face increasing pressure to reduce their environmental impact, the demand for recycled metals has surged. Many sectors, including automotive, construction, and electronics, are shifting toward recycled metals to minimize waste, lower energy consumption, and reduce the carbon footprint of their manufacturing processes. For instance, automakers use recycled aluminum and steel to build new vehicles, significantly reducing energy costs compared to producing new metals. The growing recognition of the benefits of recycling supports the global shift toward a more sustainable economy, which is propelling market growth.

"Fluctuating raw metal prices drive Market growth through cost-effective recycling"

Fluctuations in the prices of raw metals, such as aluminum, copper, and steel, are also driving the growth of scrap metal recycling. When prices for virgin metals increase, industries turn to recycled metals as a more cost-effective alternative. Recycling offers an attractive solution, reducing reliance on costly raw materials while providing a reliable supply of metals that can be reused in manufacturing. For instance, as the price of copper rises, industries that rely on copper-based components, like electronics and construction, are more likely to use recycled copper, which is less expensive and readily available. This price sensitivity encourages industries to adopt recycling as a viable and economically beneficial option, thus fostering the expansion of the market. These driving factors—sustainability goals and the economic advantages of recycling in the face of volatile raw material prices—are critical to the ongoing growth of the scrap metal recycling market. With more industries prioritizing environmental responsibility and cost savings, the demand for recycled metals is poised to continue its upward trajectory.   Restraint

"Contaminated scrap metal raises costs and challenges, limiting Market growth"

One significant restraint in the scrap metal recycling market is the issue of contaminated scrap metal. When scrap metal is mixed with non-metallic or hazardous materials, it complicates the recycling process, as these contaminants must be separated before the metal can be reused. This additional step increases both the time and costs associated with recycling. Moreover, the presence of contaminants can reduce the overall quality of the recycled metal, making it less competitive with virgin materials. In some cases, this contamination requires more advanced processing technologies, further driving up costs and presenting technical challenges. As a result, the presence of contaminated scrap metal can limit market growth by hindering efficiency and raising operational expenses for recyclers.

Opportunity

Electric Vehicle Production and growing interests in Corporate Sustainability Drives Increasing Demand for Recycled Metals

A significant opportunity for the scrap metal recycling market is the rising demand driven by the production of electric vehicles (EVs). Electric vehicles require substantial amounts of metals such as aluminum, copper, and steel for batteries, motors, and other components, all of whic...

Why did the Aluminium Wire (Copper Cladded) Price Change in May 2025? The Aluminium Wire (Copper Cladded) Price Index declined in the Asia Pacific region during Q1 2025, with FOB Shanghai prices closing at USD 6,613/MT, down 0.7% compared to the previous quarter.

According to Cognitive Market Research, the global Aluminum Can Recycling market size will be USD 3458.2 million in 2024. It will expand at the compound yearly growth rate (CAGR) of 5.00% from the year 2024 to 2031.

North America held the major market share for more than 40% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 1383.28 million in the year 2024 and will grow at the compound yearly growth rate (CAGR) of 3.2% from the year 2024 to 2031.
Europe accounted for a market share of over 30% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 1037.46 million.
Asia Pacific held a market share of around 23% of the global revenue with the market size of USD 795.39 million in the year 2024 and will grow at the compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.0% from the year 2024 to 2031.
Latin America had a market share of more than 5% of the global revenue with the market size of USD 172.91 million in 2024 and will grow at the compound yearsly growth rate (CAGR) of 4.4% from the year 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 69.16 million in 2024 and will grow at the compound yearly growth rate (CAGR) of 4.7% from 2024 to 2031.
The Load-based ASRS held the highest Aluminum Can Recycling market revenue share in 2024.

Market Dynamics of Aluminum Can Recycling Market

Key Drivers for Aluminum Can Recycling Market

Environmental Sustainability and Regulations to Increase the Demand Globally

Aluminum recycling significantly minimizes the energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions as compared to producing new aluminum from raw bauxite ore. Recycling aluminum cans saves up to 95% of the energy required for primary aluminum production, making it a critical component in efforts to combat climate change and reduce the carbon footprint. Moreover, the increasing awareness and advocacy for sustainable practices among consumers and businesses have spurred a higher demand for recycled materials. Government regulations and policies promoting recycling and the circular economy further reinforce the market, as they often mandate or incentivize recycling efforts. Consequently, the push towards environmental sustainability drives continuous advancements in recycling technologies and infrastructure, enhancing the efficiency and capacity of aluminum can recycling programs.

Economic Benefits and Resource Efficiency to Propel Market Growth

Recycling aluminum is economically advantageous due to the value of scrap aluminum, which can be repeatedly recycled without losing its properties. The process generates significant cost savings in terms of energy and material expenses, making recycled aluminum a cost-effective alternative for manufacturers. Additionally, the recycling industry creates numerous jobs in collection, processing, and distribution, contributing to local economies. As the market for consumer goods packaged in aluminum cans grows, the steady supply of recyclable material supports a robust recycling industry. The economic incentives for consumers to participate in recycling programs, often through deposit-return schemes or recycling rebates, also play a crucial role. These economic drivers, combined with the increasing demand for sustainable packaging solutions from manufacturers and retailers, ensure a steady and growing market for aluminum can recycling.

Restraint Factor for the Aluminum Can Recycling Market

Contamination Issues to Limit the Sales

Contaminated recycling streams, where non-recyclable materials are mixed with recyclable aluminum cans, significantly complicate the recycling process. This contamination can result in additional sorting costs and reduce the quality of the recycled aluminum, thereby diminishing its market value. Contaminants such as food residues, liquids, and other non-metal materials can damage recycling equipment and lower the efficiency of recycling operations. As a result, recycling facilities may incur higher operational costs, which can be passed down to consumers, potentially decreasing participation rates in recycling programs. Furthermore, contamination can lead to more waste ending up in landfills, undermining the environmental benefits of recycling efforts and reducing the overall effectiveness of aluminum recycling initiatives.

Impact of Covid-19 on the Aluminum Can Recycling Market

The Covid-19 pandemic has had a multifaceted impact on the aluminum ca...

This statistic represents the global aluminum consumption forecast from 2021 to 2029, at a compound annual growth rate of *** percent. In 2021, global aluminum consumption is projected to amount to some **** million metric tons. Aluminum usage for industrial production Thanks to its light weight, durability, and malleability, aluminum is a highly used metal in consumer goods, electronics, and vehicle production. In 2020, roughly ** percent of total aluminum globally was used by the transport sector for manufacturing and production. The trend towards high industrialization across the globe triggered a demand increase for all types of metals necessary for production. In 2020, the size of the global aluminum market was *** billion U.S. dollars. This market is expected to reach approximately *** billion U.S. dollars by 2026. As of 2020, the top three major importers of aluminum and aluminum products were the United States, Germany, and China. The top three exporters were the same countries that same year. Aluminum recycling Primary aluminum production is an very energy-intensive process and this induces organizations to repurpose waste aluminum. Across the globe, firms recycle aluminum to meet the increasing demand and gain profits. The price of one pound of recycled aluminum cans was ** U.S. cents in 2018, down from ** U.S. cents per pound in 2017. This rapid decline in the price of recycled aluminum suggests a surge in aluminum recycling and increasing efficiency of the recycling process worldwide. In 2018, the production volume of recycled aluminum in Asia reached roughly ** million metric tons, up from *** million metric tons in 2014. Nonetheless, not all aluminum waste is recycled. In North America, only ** percent of total aluminum waste was recycled between 2015 and 2017.