Copper rose to 4.42 USD/Lbs on August 1, 2025, up 0.29% from the previous day. Over the past month, Copper's price has fallen 14.18%, but it is still 7.63% higher than a year ago, according to trading on a contract for difference (CFD) that tracks the benchmark market for this commodity. Copper - values, historical data, forecasts and news - updated on August of 2025.

Get the latest insights on price movement and trend analysis of Copper 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: No. 2 Copper Scrap, Including Wire (WPU10230102) from Dec 1986 to Jun 2025 about copper, wired, metals, commodities, PPI, inflation, price index, indexes, price, and USA.

Understanding the trend in scrap copper prices is crucial for those involved in the copper industry. This article explores the fluctuation of scrap copper prices over the years, highlighting the factors that influence them and their impact on the market. From the peak in 2012 to the decline in subsequent years, to the recent signs of recovery in 2021, this article provides valuable insights for making informed business decisions.

This statistic depicts the average annual prices for copper from 2014 through 2026*. In 2024, the average price for copper stood at 9,142 nominal U.S. dollars per metric ton.

About This Dataset: Copper Prices and Market Trends

    This dataset provides **insights into copper prices**, including current rates, historical trends, and key factors affecting price fluctuations. Copper is essential in **construction**, **electronics**, and **transportation** industries. Investors, traders, and analysts use accurate copper price data to guide decisions related to **trading**, **futures**, and **commodity investments**.

    ### **Key Features of the Dataset**

    #### **Live Market Data and Updates**
    Stay updated with the latest **copper price per pound** in USD. This data is sourced from exchanges like the **London Metal Exchange (LME)** and **COMEX**. Price fluctuations result from **global supply-demand shifts**, currency changes, and geopolitical factors.

    #### **Interactive Copper Price Charts**
    Explore **dynamic charts** showcasing real-time and historical price movements. These compare copper with **gold**, **silver**, and **aluminium**, offering insights into **market trends** and inter-metal correlations.

    ### **Factors Driving Copper Prices**

    #### **1. Supply and Demand Dynamics**
    Global copper supply is driven by mining activities in regions like **Peru**, **China**, and the **United States**. Disruptions in production or policy changes can cause **supply shocks**. On the demand side, **industrial growth** in countries like **India** and **China** sustains demand for copper.

    #### **2. Economic and Industry Trends**
    Copper prices often reflect **economic trends**. The push for **renewable energy** and **electric vehicles** has boosted long-term demand. Conversely, economic downturns and **inflation** can reduce demand, lowering prices.

    #### **3. Impact of Currency and Trade Policies**
    As a globally traded commodity, copper prices are influenced by **currency fluctuations** and **tariff policies**. A strong **US dollar** typically suppresses copper prices by increasing costs for international buyers. Trade tensions can also disrupt **commodity markets**.

    ### **Applications and Benefits**

    This dataset supports **commodity investors**, **traders**, and **industry professionals**:

    - **Investors** forecast price trends and manage **investment risks**. 
    - **Analysts** perform **market research** using price data to assess **copper futures**. 
    - **Manufacturers** optimize supply chains and **cost forecasts**.

    Explore more about copper investments on **Money Metals**:

    - [**Buy Copper Products**](https://www.moneymetals.com/buy/copper) 
    - [**95% Copper Pennies (Pre-1983)**](https://www.moneymetals.com/pre-1983-95-percent-copper-pennies/4) 
    - [**Copper Buffalo Rounds**](https://www.moneymetals.com/copper-buffalo-round-1-avdp-oz-999-pure-copper/297)

    ### **Copper Price Comparisons with Other Metals**

    Copper prices often correlate with those of **industrial** and **precious metals**:

    - **Gold** and **silver** are sensitive to **inflation** and currency shifts. 
    - **Iron ore** and **aluminium** reflect changes in **global demand** within construction and manufacturing sectors.

    These correlations help traders develop **hedging strategies** and **investment models**.

    ### **Data Variables and Availability**

    Key metrics include:

    - **Copper Price Per Pound:** The current market price in USD. 
    - **Copper Futures Price:** Data from **COMEX** futures contracts. 
    - **Historical Price Trends:** Long-term movements, updated regularly. 

    Data is available in **CSV** and **JSON** formats, enabling integration with analytical tools and platforms.

    ### **Conclusion**

    Copper price data is crucial for **monitoring global commodity markets**. From **mining** to **investment strategies**, copper impacts industries worldwide. Reliable data supports **risk management**, **planning**, and **economic forecasting**.

    For more tools and data, visit the **Money Metals** [Copper Prices Page](https://www.moneymetals.com/copper-prices).

United States - Producer Price Index by Commodity: Metals and Metal Products: No. 2 Copper Scrap, Including Wire was 897.55300 Index Dec 1986=100 in June of 2025, according to the United States Federal Reserve. Historically, United States - Producer Price Index by Commodity: Metals and Metal Products: No. 2 Copper Scrap, Including Wire reached a record high of 1036.99300 in May of 2024 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: No. 2 Copper Scrap, Including Wire - last updated from the United States Federal Reserve on August of 2025.

In June 2025, the average monthly price for copper stood at over ***** U.S. dollars per metric ton. This is down from a monthly high exceeding ****** U.S. dollars in March 2024, which was among the highest monthly values observed in the past decade.

The global copper scrap market, valued at $74,140 million in 2025, is projected to experience robust growth, driven by the increasing demand for copper in various industries, particularly construction, electronics, and transportation. The compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.3% from 2025 to 2033 indicates a significant expansion of the market over the forecast period. This growth is fueled by factors such as the rising adoption of sustainable practices, leading to increased recycling rates, and the growing global infrastructure development projects that require substantial amounts of copper. Furthermore, advancements in copper scrap processing technologies are enhancing efficiency and profitability within the industry, contributing to market expansion. However, fluctuations in copper prices and the availability of high-quality scrap metal pose challenges to consistent market growth. The competitive landscape comprises both large multinational corporations such as Aurubis and smaller regional players, resulting in a dynamic market characterized by mergers, acquisitions, and strategic partnerships. The market segmentation likely includes various grades of copper scrap (e.g., bare bright wire, insulated wire, brass, bronze) influencing pricing and demand patterns. Geographic variations in recycling infrastructure and government regulations also play a crucial role in shaping regional market dynamics. The major players in the market—Aurubis, Commercial Metals (CMC), SIMS Metal Management, European Metal Recycling (EMR), and others—are continuously investing in research and development and expanding their operations to capitalize on this growing market. The strategic focus on sustainable recycling practices and efficient processing technologies will be crucial for maintaining competitiveness. While challenges like fluctuating raw material prices and environmental regulations persist, the overall outlook for the copper scrap market remains positive, driven by the rising demand for copper and increasing focus on resource efficiency and circular economy principles. The forecast period will see significant growth particularly in developing economies experiencing rapid infrastructure development and industrialization. This presents opportunities for market participants who can adapt to changing regulatory environments and provide efficient and sustainable recycling solutions.

Copper Scrap Sales Market Outlook

The global copper scrap sales market size was valued at USD 34.8 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 52.4 billion by 2032, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.5% during the forecast period. The growth of this market is driven by increasing demand for sustainable and eco-friendly materials, coupled with the rising utilization of copper across various industries such as construction, automotive, and electronics.

One of the primary growth factors propelling the copper scrap sales market is the rising emphasis on recycling and sustainability. As industries and governments worldwide pivot towards reducing carbon footprints and conserving natural resources, the recycling of copper scrap has gained substantial traction. Copper, being 100% recyclable without any loss of quality, stands as a crucial material in the circular economy. This recyclability not only conserves natural copper resources but also consumes significantly less energy compared to the extraction and processing of virgin copper, thereby reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

The rapid industrialization and urbanization, particularly in developing regions, are also significant drivers of market growth. Countries in Asia Pacific, such as China and India, are experiencing a surge in construction activities and infrastructure development, which in turn boosts the demand for copper. The automotive industry is another key sector that heavily relies on copper for manufacturing various components, including electrical systems and wires. As the production of electric vehicles (EVs) escalates, the demand for copper and its recycling is expected to soar, further augmenting the copper scrap sales market.

Advancements in technology and recycling processes are playing a critical role in the market's expansion. Enhanced methods for sorting and processing scrap copper have improved the efficiency and quality of recycled copper. Innovations such as automated sorting systems and advanced shredding techniques have minimized contamination and maximized recovery rates. These technological improvements not only reduce the operational costs associated with recycling but also make it more economically viable and attractive for businesses, thereby fueling market growth.

In the context of these technological advancements, the Copper Wire Granulator has emerged as a pivotal tool in the recycling industry. This equipment is specifically designed to process scrap copper wires and cables, efficiently separating the copper from the insulation. By utilizing a Copper Wire Granulator, recyclers can significantly enhance the purity and quality of the recovered copper, making it more valuable for resale and reuse. The granulator's ability to handle various types of copper wire, including insulated and non-insulated, makes it a versatile solution for recycling operations. As the demand for high-quality recycled copper continues to rise, the adoption of such advanced machinery is expected to increase, supporting the overall growth of the copper scrap sales market.

Regionally, the copper scrap sales market exhibits diverse dynamics. North America and Europe are mature markets with well-established recycling infrastructures and stringent environmental regulations that promote the use of recycled materials. In contrast, Asia Pacific is emerging as a lucrative market due to rapid industrial growth and infrastructural development. The region's large-scale manufacturing activities and increasing awareness about sustainability are expected to drive significant market growth. Latin America and the Middle East & Africa, although smaller markets, are gradually catching up as they develop their recycling capabilities and industrial sectors.

Bare Bright Copper Analysis

Bare bright copper, often referred to as "bright and shiny" copper, is one of the highest-grade copper scraps available. It comprises clean, unalloyed, uncoated, and uninsulated copper wire and cables, typically stripped from electrical wiring. This segment is highly valued in the market due to its high purity and excellent conductive properties, making it a preferred choice for industries requiring high-quality copper. The demand for bare bright copper is particularly strong in the electrical and electronics industries, where superior conductivity is essential.

The market for bare bright copper is driven by its extensive use in electrical appl

The price of electrical copper wire scrap is subject to fluctuation and varies depending on several factors such as purity, volume, market demand, insulation quality, and economic conditions. This article discusses how copper prices are quoted, the impact of commodity market trends, and the factors affecting copper scrap prices. It also provides tips on obtaining accurate and up-to-date pricing for electrical copper wire scrap.

Global Copper Scrap market size 2025 was XX Million. Copper Scrap Industry compound annual growth rate (CAGR) will be XX% from 2025 till 2033.

Check out Market Research Intellect's Copper Scrap Market Report, valued at USD 45.3 billion in 2024, with a projected growth to USD 67.8 billion by 2033 at a CAGR of 5.8% (2026-2033).

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

Why did the Copper Wire Price Change in July 2025? The Copper Wire Price Index in North America fell by 2.1% quarter over quarter, reflecting a surplus of inventory in warehouses and steady output from major global producers.

Recycled Copper Scrap Market Outlook

According to our latest research, the global recycled copper scrap market size reached USD 78.6 billion in 2024, demonstrating robust demand across key industries. The market is set to expand at a CAGR of 5.7% during the forecast period, with projections indicating a value of USD 130.2 billion by 2033. This steady growth trajectory is primarily fueled by heightened environmental awareness, stringent regulations on metal recycling, and the increasing adoption of sustainable materials in manufacturing and infrastructure. The market’s expansion is further supported by the rising need for copper in emerging technologies and the ongoing transition towards a circular economy.

A significant growth factor for the recycled copper scrap market is the escalating demand for copper in the construction and electrical sectors. As urbanization accelerates globally, particularly in developing economies, there is a surge in infrastructure projects requiring substantial amounts of copper for wiring, plumbing, and building materials. Simultaneously, the electrical and electronics industry continues to expand, with copper being a critical component in circuit boards, power cables, and electronic devices. The increasing focus on green building standards and energy-efficient systems further amplifies the demand for recycled copper, as it offers a sustainable alternative to newly mined copper, reducing both environmental impact and production costs.

Another pivotal driver is the growing regulatory emphasis on resource conservation and waste reduction. Governments across North America, Europe, and Asia Pacific are implementing stringent policies and incentives to promote metal recycling, including copper. These regulations not only encourage recycling practices but also support the development of advanced technologies for efficient copper recovery from scrap. The integration of automation and artificial intelligence in recycling facilities has significantly improved the quality and yield of recycled copper, making it more attractive for end-users. In addition, the increasing volatility of copper prices in the global market incentivizes manufacturers to secure a stable supply of recycled copper, reducing their dependence on primary sources and mitigating price fluctuations.

Technological advancements in copper recycling processes are also instrumental in propelling market growth. Innovations such as hydrometallurgical and pyrometallurgical techniques have enhanced the efficiency and environmental performance of copper recovery from various scrap sources. These advancements enable the recycling of complex copper-containing products, including electronic waste and end-of-life vehicles, thus broadening the spectrum of recyclable materials. The adoption of closed-loop recycling systems by major manufacturers further strengthens the market, as it ensures a consistent supply of high-quality recycled copper for use in new products. This trend aligns with the broader sustainability goals of numerous industries, driving the global adoption of recycled copper scrap.

From a regional perspective, Asia Pacific dominates the recycled copper scrap market, accounting for the largest share in 2024. The region’s strong industrial base, rapid urbanization, and significant investments in infrastructure development underpin this leadership. China, India, and Southeast Asian countries are at the forefront, supported by favorable government policies and a growing emphasis on sustainable resource management. North America and Europe also represent substantial markets, driven by advanced recycling infrastructure and stringent environmental regulations. Meanwhile, Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are witnessing gradual growth, propelled by rising industrialization and increasing awareness of recycling benefits. This regional diversification ensures a balanced and resilient market outlook for the coming years.

Source Analysis

The source segment of the recycled copp

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.

Learn about the factors that influence the market price of copper scrap, including supply and demand dynamics, global economic conditions, copper market trends, and government regulations. Find out why copper scrap is in high demand and how it is a cost-effective source of copper for manufacturing purposes. Stay updated on the current copper scrap market price by referring to industry publications, metal pricing websites, and local scrap yards.

According to Cognitive Market Research, the global Copper Recycling market size will be USD 255684.2 million in 2024. It will expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.50% 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 102273.68 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.7% from 2024 to 2031.
Europe accounted for a market share of over 30% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 76705.26 million.
Asia Pacific held a market share of around 23% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 58807.37 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.5% from 2024 to 2031.
Latin America had a market share of more than 5% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 12784.21 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.9% 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 5113.6 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.2% from 2024 to 2031.
The Pre-consumer Scrap category is the fastest-growing segment of the Copper Recycling industry

Market Dynamics of Copper Recycling Market

Key Drivers for Copper Recycling Market

Growing Demand for Sustainable Materials to Boost Market Growth

The increasing global awareness of environmental sustainability has significantly influenced consumer behavior and industrial practices. As industries strive to reduce their ecological footprint, the demand for sustainable materials has surged. Between 2019 and 2023, 62 member states and the European Union introduced 516 policy instruments aimed at facilitating the transition to sustainable consumption and production patterns. Approximately half of these policies consist of national road maps or strategies, 30 percent are legal instruments, and 14 percent are voluntary measures. In this context, recycled copper has emerged as a key component of this trend, as it contributes to reducing the ecological impact of production processes. Unlike primary copper, which is derived from intensive mining and processing, recycled copper comes from scrap materials and involves significantly lower energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.

Extensive Usage of Recycled Copper in the Electrical & Electronics Sector to Drive Market Growth

The electrical and electronics sector is one of the largest consumers of copper due to its superior electrical conductivity and resistance to corrosion. In 2022, electrical machinery and electronics ranked as the world's second most traded product, with a total trade value of $3.39 trillion. Between 2021 and 2022, exports in this sector grew by 6.27%, rising from $3.19 trillion to $3.39 trillion. Copper plays a vital role in numerous electrical and electronic products, including wires, cables, connectors, motors, transformers, printed circuit boards (PCBs), and consumer devices such as smartphones, laptops, and televisions. The rapid proliferation of electronic devices and growing technology consumption have also driven a substantial rise in global e-waste. According to preliminary data from the International Data Corporation (IDC) Worldwide Quarterly Mobile Phone Tracker, global smartphone shipments increased by 9.0% year over year, reaching 292.2 million units in the second quarter of 2024. As a significant contributor to e-waste, the electrical and electronics sector offers substantial opportunities for manufacturers in the recycled copper market worldwide.

Restraint Factor for the Copper Recycling Market

Fluctuating Copper Prices and Quality Variability and ContaminationWill Limit Market Growth

One of the key challenges facing the recycled copper market is the volatility of copper prices. The global copper market is highly sensitive and easily influenced by factors such as fluctuations in supply and demand, geopolitical tensions, and economic instability. This price volatility can significantly impact the profitability of recycling operations. When copper prices are high, recycling becomes an attractive and profitable business, spurring investments in recycling infrastructure. However, during periods of falling prices, the economic feasibility of recycling can be jeopardized, as the revenue from selling recycled copper may not be enough to cover the costs of...

The global copper scrap market is projected to be valued at $42 billion in 2024, driven by factors such as increasing consumer awareness and the rising prevalence of industry-specific trends. The market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 6.2%, reaching approximately $75 billion by 2034.