Get the latest insights on price movement and trend analysis of Steel 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: Cast Iron Scrap (WPU101213) from Dec 1986 to Jun 2025 about iron, metals, commodities, PPI, inflation, price index, indexes, price, and USA.

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.

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

This statistic shows steel scrap prices worldwide between the 2013 and 2016 calendar years, and gives a forecast through 2021. In 2018, it is expected that the price of steel scrap will come to around *** U.S. dollars per metric ton.

United States - Producer Price Index by Commodity: Metals and Metal Products: Shredded Carbon Steel Scrap was 229.72000 Index Jun 1996=100 in June of 2025, according to the United States Federal Reserve. Historically, United States - Producer Price Index by Commodity: Metals and Metal Products: Shredded Carbon Steel Scrap reached a record high of 375.23600 in April of 2022 and a record low of 56.10000 in November of 2001. 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: Shredded Carbon Steel Scrap - last updated from the United States Federal Reserve on August of 2025.

United States - Producer Price Index by Commodity: Metals and Metal Products: Stainless and Other Alloy Steel Scrap was 429.62100 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: Stainless and Other Alloy Steel Scrap reached a record high of 845.43200 in March of 2022 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: Stainless and Other Alloy Steel Scrap - last updated from the United States Federal Reserve on August of 2025.

Get the latest insights on price movement and trend analysis of Iron 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: Carbon Steel Scrap (WPU101211) from Dec 1986 to Jun 2025 about steel, metals, commodities, PPI, inflation, price index, indexes, price, and USA.

Steel fell to 3,188 CNY/T on July 31, 2025, down 1.24% from the previous day. Over the past month, Steel's price has risen 5.21%, and is up 6.27% compared to the same time last year, according to trading on a contract for difference (CFD) that tracks the benchmark market for this commodity. Steel - values, historical data, forecasts and news - updated on August of 2025.

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 global sales of recycled scrap metal is estimated at USD 75.5 billion in 2025. Revenue is projected to rise steadily at a CAGR of 7.1% from 2025 to 2035, reaching USD 149.9 billion by the end of the forecast period.

Metric	Value
Industry Size (2025E)	USD 75.5 billion
Industry Value (2035F)	USD 149.9 billion
CAGR (2025 to 2035)	7.1%

Analyzing Recycled Scrap Metal Market by Top Investment Segments

Metal Type	Value Share (2035)
Ferrous Metals	72.5%

Metal Type	Value Share (2035)
Building & Construction	15.6%

Semi-annual Update

Particular	Value CAGR
H1	6.1% (2024 to 2034)
H2	7.5% (2024 to 2034)
H1	6.5% (2025 to 2035)
H2	7.7% (2025 to 2035)

Country-wise Insights

Countries	Value CAGR (2025 to 2035)
USA	6.5%
UK	7.9%
China	6.9%
Japan	7.3%
India	7.6%

Steel Scrap Market size is anticipated to reach USD 980.5 Million by 2034, at a CAGR of 4.0% during the projected period.

United States - Producer Price Index by Commodity: Metals and Metal Products: Iron and Steel Scrap was 513.01800 Index 1982=100 in June of 2025, according to the United States Federal Reserve. Historically, United States - Producer Price Index by Commodity: Metals and Metal Products: Iron and Steel Scrap reached a record high of 859.24200 in April of 2022 and a record low of 33.30000 in July of 1949. 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: Iron and Steel Scrap - last updated from the United States Federal Reserve on August of 2025.

Learn about the factors that influence ferrous steel scrap prices, including market conditions, global economic trends, and the quality of the metal. Understand how to navigate price fluctuations and the significance of ferrous steel scrap in the recycling industry.

Steel Scrap Market Outlook

The global steel scrap market size was valued at approximately USD 540 billion in 2023 and is forecasted to reach around USD 760 billion by 2032, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.8% during the forecast period from 2024 to 2032. The steel scrap market is experiencing robust growth due to increasing demand for sustainable and cost-effective materials in the construction and automotive industries. The rising awareness of environmental sustainability and the benefits of recycling in reducing carbon footprints are pivotal growth factors driving the expansion of this market. The steel industry is heavily investing in recycling processes to enhance production efficiency and align with global carbon reduction goals, further propelling market growth.

One of the primary growth factors in the steel scrap market is the escalating demand for steel in emerging economies. As countries such as India, China, and Brazil continue to industrialize, the demand for construction and infrastructure development soars. This, in turn, amplifies the need for steel, and consequently, steel scrap, as it serves as a crucial raw material in steel production. Additionally, the automotive industry's shift towards lightweight and durable materials for vehicle manufacturing is boosting the demand for steel scrap. This shift is driven by the need to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions, aligning with stringent environmental regulations. The recycling of steel scrap not only meets these demands but also offers a cost-effective solution compared to the production of virgin steel.

Moreover, technological advancements in recycling processes are further enhancing the market's growth potential. Innovations in shredding, shearing, and baling techniques are increasing the efficiency and yield of steel scrap recycling, making it more viable for widespread adoption. These advancements are particularly significant in reducing energy consumption and emissions during the recycling process, thereby aligning with global sustainability targets. Additionally, governmental policies and initiatives promoting recycling and the use of secondary raw materials are encouraging industries to adopt steel scrap, further boosting market growth. The increasing trend towards circular economies in various regions is underscoring the importance of steel scrap recycling in achieving environmental sustainability and resource efficiency.

Regionally, the Asia Pacific is anticipated to dominate the steel scrap market due to rapid industrialization and urbanization. The region's burgeoning construction and automotive industries are significant consumers of steel scrap, supported by favorable government policies and investments in infrastructure development. North America and Europe are also key markets, driven by established recycling infrastructures and a strong focus on sustainability. In these regions, the demand for steel scrap is supported by regulations mandating recycling and the use of eco-friendly materials in manufacturing. Meanwhile, Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are witnessing growing market potential due to increased investment in industrial and infrastructural development projects.

Metal Scrap Processing Equipment plays a crucial role in the efficient recycling of steel scrap. As the demand for recycled materials grows, the need for advanced equipment that can handle various types of metal scrap becomes increasingly important. These machines, including shredders, shears, and balers, are designed to process scrap metal into manageable sizes, enhancing the efficiency of recycling operations. The integration of cutting-edge technology in metal scrap processing equipment not only improves the quality of the recycled material but also reduces energy consumption and emissions, aligning with global sustainability goals. As industries continue to prioritize eco-friendly practices, the adoption of sophisticated metal scrap processing equipment is expected to rise, supporting the overall growth of the steel scrap market.

Type Analysis

The steel scrap market can be segmented by type, which includes heavy melting steel, bundles, turnings, busheling, and others. Heavy melting steel (HMS) is one of the predominant types of steel scrap used extensively in the steelmaking process. Its high density and durability make it suitable for use in electric arc furnaces and other steel production methods. The demand for HMS is driven by its cost-effectiveness and recy

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).

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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.
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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

Scrap Metal Recycling Market size is expected to reach USD 93.90 Bn by 2032, from USD 63.66 Bn in 2025, exhibiting a CAGR of 5.7% during the forecast period.

United States - Producer Price Index by Commodity: Metals and Metal Products: Carbon Steel Scrap Bundles was 274.44500 Index Jun 1996=100 in June of 2025, according to the United States Federal Reserve. Historically, United States - Producer Price Index by Commodity: Metals and Metal Products: Carbon Steel Scrap Bundles reached a record high of 522.80000 in July of 2008 and a record low of 54.80000 in November of 2001. 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: Carbon Steel Scrap Bundles - last updated from the United States Federal Reserve on August of 2025.