Scrap prices and metals recycling

Pricing transparency for metals recycling and global scrap markets in the circular economy

Welcome to Fastmarkets metals recycling 

The world of metals is evolving, and so are we. What you’ve known as our scrap and secondary pillar is now rebranded as metals recycling – a name that better reflects the dynamic, technology-driven industry it represents today. This change underscores our commitment to staying ahead of industry trends and supporting a sector that’s critical to the circular economy and sustainable supply chains. 

Metals recycling is no longer just about scrap. It’s a process that plays a vital role in global sustainability efforts.  

  • Sustainability: Recycling metals uses significantly less energy than mining virgin ore, reducing emissions and environmental impact 
  • Strengthening supply chains: Recycling metals provides a reliable, sustainable source of materials for manufacturing, construction, electronics and more 
  • Circular economy goals: Metals recycling is at the forefront, driving innovation and reducing waste 

While the name has evolved, our trusted methodologies, pricing processes and benchmarks remain unchanged. Fastmarkets continues to deliver the same reliable data, analysis and insights that you’ve come to depend on. Our market reflective price data, news and forecasts combine the commodity intelligence of familiar names like Metal Bulletin, American Metal Market, Scrap Price Bulletin and Industrial Minerals. 

Build your personalized view of the metals markets in the Fastmarkets dashboard

What’s happening in the scrap and secondary metals recycling markets?

Scrap and secondary metals recycling markets are in a state of flux. Our expertise spans a wide range of recycled materials, including ferrous and non-ferrous metals, ensuring you have the information you need to make informed decisions. 

The Mexican steel industry is making investments in sustainability through the adoption of renewable energy, advanced technologies and circular economy models. These initiatives aim to reduce dependence on imports while enhancing local supply chains, positioning Mexico as a leader in green steel production for key sectors such as automotive and construction.

This article examines trends in CIF aluminium scrap prices and import volumes across Southeast Asia, offering insights into critical market dynamics. It highlights both challenges and opportunities in the aluminium trade to support stakeholders in making strategic decisions.

Market participants are reporting significant disruption in shipping containers of metal scrap

Here are the key takeaways from market participants on US ferrous scrap metal prices, market confidence, inventory and more from our January survey.

Trump’s tariffs on Canadian and Mexican metals have introduced significant instability to the U.S. metals sector. The 25% tariffs, coupled with retaliatory measures from Canada and Mexico, have fuelled price volatility, supply chain disruptions, and operational uncertainty across multiple industries. These trade policies are reshaping global market dynamics as stakeholders brace for long-term impacts on steel, aluminium, copper, and other metal commodities.

This guide explores current price trends, breaks down the key copper scrap grades and provides a global outlook for 2025.

How can we help you?

Our global team of over 200 price reporters provides over 900 proprietary scrap prices

Delivered to you as the markets are changing from reporters embedded in the global scrap and secondary markets

With an over 90% accuracy rating, our forecasting helps you understand what’s next for the scrap and secondary market

Grow and protect your profits and insulate your business from volatility with the Fastmarkets risk management team

Fastmarkets’ metals consulting is your partner in creating value and managing risk

Learn how the Fastmarkets platform can help you navigate the fast-moving metals market

Market report

This report brings together a wide range of opinions from US scrap industry participants and delves into the expectations for the market in the upcoming month, providing a deep dive into price movements and market dynamics by region, market side and more.

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    Find out how we assess and forecast prices for the global metals market

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