Copper rose to 5.19 USD/Lbs on December 2, 2025, up 0.35% from the previous day. Over the past month, Copper's price has risen 3.22%, and is up 25.36% compared to the same time last year, 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 December of 2025.

View monthly updates and historical trends for Copper Price. Source: World Bank. Track economic data with YCharts analytics.

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.

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.

Graph and download economic data for Global price of Copper (PCOPPUSDM) from Jan 1990 to Jun 2025 about copper, metals, World, and price.

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**:

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    - [**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).

Copper futures traded close to the $4.7-per-pound level, not far from an all-time high of $5 hit on March 7th amid a tight market as investors weigh lower supply from top producer Chile, disruptions caused by the war in Ukraine, and assess the impact of the latest Covid outbreak in China in both demand and supply. Copper output in Chile, the world's largest producer, fell 7% from a year earlier to 394,700 tonnes in February, following a 7.5% fall in January and a 1.9% decline in 2021 production. Meanwhile, Chinese authorities extended a lockdown in Shanghai, an industrial powerhouse and major port, further threatening global supply chains. Logistics operators report that restrictions are already making it harder to move goods around and keep factories operating at full capacity. Elsewhere, Peru's ministry of economy and finance said that the world’s second-largest copper supplier will target the excess profits that mining companies earned from rising metal prices around the world. Historically, Copper reached an all time high of 5.02 in March of 2022.

Copper prices are rising due to global supply constraints and tariffs, with expectations of continued increases and potential regional shortages.

In 2021, the average annual market price of copper peaked at ***** U.S. dollars per metric ton, before slightly decreasing in 2022 and 2023, when its average price was ***** U.S. dollars. Copper consumption Copper is a base metal that has a wide variety of uses, which makes it an important commodity. Equipment production generally accounts on average for one third of copper consumption, making it the largest global end use of copper. The country with the highest demand for copper as of 2022 was China, with a demand amounting to nearly ************ metric tons of copper. Following China was Europe, with a total demand of just over *********** metric tons. Copper market prices The London Metal Exchange and Comex both provide market prices for copper. In 2023, the copper price for the London Metal Exchange was about *** U.S. cents per pound. The average Comex price in 2022 was estimated to be about *** U.S. cents per pound.

Copper prices rose following a temporary trade truce between the US and China, with tariff reductions offering relief to commodities markets and fostering positive future negotiations.

The global copper scrap market, valued at $74.14 billion in 2025, is projected to experience robust growth, driven by the increasing demand for copper in various industries, particularly construction, electronics, and transportation. A Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 4.3% from 2025 to 2033 indicates a substantial market expansion. This growth is fueled by several key factors: the rising global infrastructure development requiring vast quantities of copper, the increasing adoption of renewable energy technologies (solar panels and wind turbines), and the expanding electronics sector continuously generating e-waste rich in recyclable copper. Furthermore, growing environmental awareness and stricter regulations on waste management are promoting copper recycling, bolstering market growth. However, fluctuations in copper prices, the availability of high-quality scrap, and the competition from primary copper production pose challenges to consistent market expansion. The market is segmented based on various factors including scrap grade (e.g., bare bright wire, insulated wire, brass scrap), end-use application, and geographical region. Key players in this competitive landscape include Aurubis, Commercial Metals, and Sims Metal Management, amongst others, constantly striving for market share through technological advancements in recycling and strategic acquisitions. The competitive landscape is characterized by both large multinational corporations and smaller regional players. Established companies leverage their extensive global networks and processing capabilities to secure substantial market share. Conversely, smaller companies often specialize in niche segments or regional markets. The future of the copper scrap market depends on several intertwined factors. Technological innovations in copper extraction and recycling processes, fluctuations in raw material prices, and government policies promoting sustainable practices will significantly impact market growth trajectories. The strategic positioning of companies will hinge upon their ability to adapt to these dynamic shifts, including investment in advanced recycling technologies, efficient supply chain management, and sustainable sourcing strategies. This will be critical in maintaining profitability and remaining competitive in a constantly evolving landscape.

The average annual copper price is forecast to drop by 6% y-o-y to $8,800 per ton this year. Boosting supply in the global copper ore market is to push prices down, while the global demand languishes with slowed construction activity in China.

Copper Concentrate Market size was valued at USD 19.3 Billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 35.6 Billion by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 8.2% during the forecast period 2024-2031.

Global Copper Concentrate Market Drivers

The market drivers for the Copper Concentrate Market can be influenced by various factors. These may include:

Demand from Electric Vehicles and Renewable Energy: The increasing demand for electric vehicles (EVs) and renewable energy technologies significantly drives the copper concentrate market. As global efforts to combat climate change intensify, industries are shifting toward sustainable options, and copper's excellent conductivity makes it an essential component in EVs and solar panels. The International Energy Agency projects substantial growth in EV production, requiring vast amounts of copper for batteries and wiring. Additionally, renewable energy infrastructures like wind and solar power are also copper-intensive. This surge in demand is expected to create supply challenges, thereby impacting copper concentrate prices and market dynamics.

Infrastructure Development: Infrastructure development is a key driver of the copper concentrate market. Governments around the world have initiated large-scale infrastructure projects to bolster economic growth and employment, particularly in emerging markets. These projects, including roads, bridges, and public transportation systems, often require significant amounts of copper for electrical systems and construction materials. For instance, updated infrastructure policies in countries like the United States and China promise to increase demand for copper. Consequently, as these projects progress, the demand for copper concentrate is expected to rise, exerting upward pressure on prices and encouraging investment in mining operations.

Global Copper Concentrate Market Restraints

Several factors can act as restraints or challenges for the Copper Concentrate Market. These may include:

Environmental Regulations: The copper concentrate market faces significant constraints due to stringent environmental regulations aimed at minimizing the impact of mining and processing activities. Governments worldwide have implemented laws to reduce emissions and promote sustainable practices, leading to increased operational costs for mining companies. Processing copper concentrate generates waste and requires proper treatment due to potential pollutants such as heavy metals. Compliance with these regulations can limit production capabilities, increase capital expenditures for environmental management, and slow down project approvals. Companies must invest in cleaner technologies, which can divert funds from exploration and development, thereby restricting market growth.

Fluctuating Copper Prices: Fluctuations in global copper prices significantly restrain the copper concentrate market. Prices are influenced by geopolitical factors, supply-demand dynamics, and economic conditions, creating uncertainties for miners and traders. When prices decline, mining companies often scale back production or delay new investments, leading to reduced availability of concentrate in the market. Such volatility can deter new entrants, spooking investors during periods of low prices. Furthermore, inconsistent pricing affects long-term contracts and can create cash flow issues, complicating financial planning for businesses that rely on steady market conditions for sustainable operations.

Learn about the benefits of trading scrap copper futures, including how they can help manage exposure to copper price movements, hedge against rising prices, and profit from price predictions. Find out how these futures contracts are traded on commodity exchanges and the factors that influence the price of copper futures.

Discover the booming copper market forecast to 2033! This in-depth analysis reveals a CAGR exceeding 6%, driven by renewable energy, electric vehicles, and global infrastructure growth. Learn about key players, market segmentation, and regional trends impacting copper prices and supply chains. Recent developments include: November 2021: Aurubis AG further expanded its activities in recycling metal-bearing materials internationally. It started the construction of a multi metal recycling plant in the US state of Georgia. Circuit boards, copper cable, and other recycling materials containing metals will be processed into 35,000 tons of blister copper annually., May 2021: Glencore announced its plans to restart operations at the Mutanda copper and cobalt mine in 2022. The restarted operations at Mutanda could help the company ease shortages in the copper and cobalt markets, which are potentially capping further price gains.. Key drivers for this market are: Growing Demand from Electronics and Construction Industry, Other Drivers. Potential restraints include: Growing Demand from Electronics and Construction Industry, Other Drivers. Notable trends are: Growing Demand for Electrical and Electronics Segment.

Snapshot img

Copper Market Size 2024-2028

The copper market size is forecast to increase by USD 70 billion, at a CAGR of 6.78% between 2023 and 2028. The market is characterized by robust demand, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region, driven by technological innovations.

Major Market Trends & Insights

APAC dominated the market and accounted for a 73% share in 2022. The market is expected to grow significantly in North America region as well over the forecast period. Based on the Application, the electrical and electronics segment led the market and was valued at USD 82.20 billion of the global revenue in 2022. Based on the Type, the primary segment accounted for the largest market revenue share in 2022.

Market Size & Forecast

Market Opportunities: USD 191.60 Billion Future Opportunities: USD 70 Billion CAGR (2023-2028): 6.78% APAC: Largest market in 2022

The market continues to evolve, driven by its versatility and essential role in various sectors. Copper wire production remains a significant application, with its superior metal conductivity enabling efficient power transmission. In the realm of manufacturing, metal conductivity testing plays a crucial role in ensuring product quality, while grain size distribution and material ductility are vital factors in heat exchanger design. Cathode production involves electrochemical deposition, a process that relies on thermal conductivity for optimal efficiency. Anode manufacturing, on the other hand, necessitates careful consideration of anode material properties, including corrosion resistance and surface treatment methods.

What will be the Size of the Copper Market during the forecast period?

Explore in-depth regional segment analysis with market size data - historical 2018-2022 and forecasts 2024-2028 - in the full report.
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Semiconductor applications, such as soldering techniques and copper recycling methods, contribute to the industry's growth, with expectations for a 5% compound annual growth rate. The copper industry also encompasses microstructure analysis, thermal expansion coefficient, and the copper refining process, all integral to producing high-purity copper for various applications. Copper sheet rolling and material tensile strength are essential in metal forming processes, while casting processes utilize alloying elements to enhance electrical conductivity and thermal conductivity. Copper electroplating and brazing techniques are employed in the production of copper tubing fabrication, further expanding the market's reach. Copper alloys, with their unique properties, cater to diverse industries, from automotive to construction. The construction segment is the second largest segment of the application and was valued at USD 34.20 billion in 2022.

Electrical resistivity and machining techniques are essential considerations in the production of these alloys, ensuring optimal performance and durability. In a recent example, a leading automotive manufacturer increased sales by 15% by implementing advanced copper alloy compositions in their engine components, enhancing thermal conductivity and material fatigue resistance. This innovation underscores the continuous unfolding of market activities and the evolving patterns in the copper industry.

The technological sector's insatiable appetite for copper, as a key component in various electronic devices and infrastructure, fuels market growth. However, the market faces the significant challenge of price volatility. Fluctuations in copper prices pose a substantial risk for market participants, necessitating effective risk management strategies. Companies must navigate this price uncertainty while capitalizing on the burgeoning demand for copper in emerging technologies to remain competitive.

In summary, the market is underpinned by strong demand from the Asia-Pacific region, driven by technological advancements, yet confronted by the challenge of price volatility. Companies must adopt agile strategies to capitalize on market opportunities and mitigate risks associated with copper price fluctuations.

How is this Copper Industry segmented?

The copper industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD billion' for the period 2024-2028, as well as historical data from 2018-2022 for the following segments.

Application

Electrical and electronics Construction Telecommunication Transportation Others

Type

Primary Secondary Oxygen-Free Electrolytic

Product Form

Wire Rods Tubes Sheets and Strips Plates Bars and Sections

Geography

North America

US Canada

Europe

France Germany Italy UK

Middle East and Africa

Egypt KSA Oman UAE

APAC

China India Japan

South America

Argentina Brazil

Rest of World (ROW)

By Application Insights

The electrical and electronics segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period. The segmen

According to Cognitive Market Research, the global Copper Recycling market size was 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

Increasing Demand for Sustainable Materials Facilitating Market Growth: Environmental issues and sustainability objectives are driving industries to utilize recycled materials. Recycled copper minimizes energy usage and carbon emissions in comparison to primary production, aligning with environmentally conscious strategies. As regulations and corporate responsibility initiatives expand, industries are emphasizing circular economy practices, which further boosts the demand for copper recycling in the manufacturing and construction sectors.

Growing Utilization in the Electrical and Electronics Sector Stimulating Demand: The extensive application of copper in electrical wiring, connectors, and electronic components has established the electronics industry as a major contributor to copper recycling. The rise in electronic device consumption and e-waste production has created opportunities for the recovery of high-quality copper. Manufacturers are concentrating on recycled copper to satisfy demand while mitigating resource depletion and environmental effects.

Restraint Factor for the Copper Recycling Market

Fluctuating Copper Prices Causing Market Instability: Variations in global copper prices significantly affect the profitability and stability of recycling operations. Unstable pricing can deter investment in recycling infrastructure during economic downturns, leading to disruptions in supply chains. This price volatility poses challenges for recyclers in maintaining long-term contracts and achieving sustainable profit margins, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises that operate under strict financial constraints.

Quality Fluctuations and Contamination Issues: Copper scrap frequently exhibits variability in quality and may include non-metallic contaminants or mixed metals. The presence of contaminated materials complicates the recycling process, resulting in increased costs due to the need for additional sorting and purification. These quality issues can dissuade high-end applications, thereby restricting the use of recycled copper in industries that demand consistent and pure input materials.

Key Trends for the Copper Recycling Market

Advancements in Recycling Technologies Improving Output Quality: Recyclers are progressively investing in cutting-edge separation and purification technologies to enhance the efficiency and quality of recycled copper. Innovations in sensor-based sorting, hydrometallurgy, and automated dismantling are facilitating improved recovery rates, making recycled copper more competitive with primary copper and broadening its applications in high-performance sectors.

Heightened Emphasis on Circular Economy and E-Waste Management: Governments and industries are prioritizing circular economy principles, resulting in more robust e-waste collection frameworks. The incorporation of copper recovery into electronic waste management systems is gaining momentum. This trend fosters sustainable material cycles, aligns with legislative objectives, and encourages partnerships among technology companies, recyclers, and policymakers t...

The global copper market, valued at $270.46 billion in 2025, is poised for significant growth. While the exact CAGR is not provided, considering the strong drivers in the electric-power, transportation, and construction sectors, a conservative estimate of 5-7% CAGR is reasonable for the forecast period 2025-2033. This growth is fueled by the increasing demand for copper in electric vehicles, renewable energy infrastructure (solar panels, wind turbines), and the ongoing expansion of global construction activities. Technological advancements leading to improved conductivity and efficiency further contribute to this upward trajectory. However, fluctuating copper prices, supply chain disruptions, and the potential for substitution by alternative materials represent key restraints. The market is segmented by type (plates, wires, rods and bars, tubes, and others) and application (electric-power industry, transportation, electronic products, construction and buildings, and others), offering various avenues for growth depending on market conditions and technological breakthroughs. Key players such as Jintian Group, Jiangxi Copper, and Aurubis are strategically positioned to capitalize on these market trends. Regional analysis indicates strong demand from Asia Pacific, particularly China and India, driven by rapid industrialization and infrastructure development. North America and Europe also represent significant markets, influenced by ongoing investments in renewable energy and technological advancements. The market's segmentation provides valuable insights into individual growth opportunities. For instance, the electric vehicle revolution is directly boosting the demand for copper wiring and components, while advancements in construction techniques and the growth of smart cities further fuel the demand for copper in buildings and infrastructure projects. The competition within the copper industry is fierce, with established players vying for market share alongside emerging companies. Strategic partnerships, mergers and acquisitions, and technological innovation will be crucial for maintaining a competitive edge in this dynamic market. The forecast period of 2025-2033 presents substantial growth opportunities, especially given ongoing global electrification efforts and the increasing focus on sustainable infrastructure development. Careful consideration of market dynamics, regulatory changes, and economic factors will be essential for businesses operating within this sector.

Graph and download economic data for Producer Price Index by Commodity: Metals and Metal Products: Copper Wire and Cable (WPU10260314) from Dec 1986 to Sep 2025 about wired, copper, metals, commodities, PPI, inflation, price index, indexes, price, and USA.

The global copper cathode market is experiencing robust growth, driven by the increasing demand from the construction, electrical, and transportation sectors. The market is projected to reach a significant size, with a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) reflecting strong expansion. While precise figures for market size and CAGR are unavailable in the provided data, a reasonable estimate, based on industry reports and current market trends, suggests a market size in the billions of USD in 2025, growing at a CAGR of approximately 5-7% from 2025 to 2033. This growth is fueled by several key factors. The ongoing global infrastructure development initiatives, particularly in emerging economies, are creating a substantial demand for copper cathodes. Additionally, the rising adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) and renewable energy technologies, which require significant amounts of copper in their manufacturing, is significantly boosting market growth. Furthermore, technological advancements in copper extraction and refining processes are enhancing efficiency and contributing to increased production. However, the market also faces certain challenges. Fluctuations in copper prices, largely dependent on global economic conditions and supply chain dynamics, can impact market stability. Environmental concerns related to copper mining and refining are also leading to stricter regulations, potentially increasing production costs. The industry's dependence on a limited number of major players also introduces potential vulnerabilities. Despite these restraints, the long-term outlook for the copper cathode market remains positive, driven by the enduring need for copper in various crucial industries and ongoing technological innovation aimed at sustainable and efficient production. The key players mentioned – Codelco, Freeport McMoran, Aurubis, and others – are strategically positioned to benefit from this growth, though competition will likely remain intense.