Copper Scrap - Global Strategic Business Report

The global market for Copper Scrap was estimated at US$68.8 Billion in 2024 and is projected to reach US$103.8 Billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 7.1% from 2024 to 2030. This comprehensive report provides an in-depth analysis of market trends, drivers, and forecasts, helping you make informed business decisions. The report includes the most recent global tariff developments and how they impact the Copper Scrap market.

Global Copper Scrap Market - Key Trends & Drivers Summarized

Why Is Copper Scrap Becoming a Critical Resource in the Global Market?

Copper scrap has gained immense significance as industries worldwide shift towards sustainable and circular economy models. With the rising demand for copper across sectors such as construction, automotive, electrical, and renewable energy, the recycling of copper scrap has become a key strategy to address supply shortages, reduce carbon emissions, and lower production costs. Copper is one of the most recyclable metals, retaining its original properties even after multiple recycling cycles, making it a highly valuable resource in the manufacturing of electrical wiring, plumbing materials, and industrial machinery. The increasing volatility in copper ore mining and fluctuating raw material prices have further incentivized industries to source recycled copper as an alternative. Moreover, stringent environmental regulations and government incentives promoting metal recycling have led to a surge in copper scrap collection and processing, particularly in developed economies such as the U.S., Europe, and China. As industries seek to minimize their environmental impact while ensuring a steady copper supply, the copper scrap market is witnessing robust growth and investment.

How Are Technological Advancements Enhancing Copper Scrap Recycling?

Advancements in recycling technology have significantly improved the efficiency, purity, and cost-effectiveness of copper scrap processing. Innovations in sorting technologies, such as laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) and X-ray fluorescence (XRF), have enabled precise separation of different copper grades, ensuring higher purity levels in recycled copper. Additionally, hydrometallurgical and bioleaching techniques are gaining traction as eco-friendly alternatives to traditional smelting, reducing energy consumption and minimizing toxic emissions. The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning in scrap sorting facilities has further optimized the recovery process, identifying and classifying copper scrap with greater accuracy. The development of automated shredding, granulation, and electrochemical refining technologies has also enhanced the quality of secondary copper production, making it nearly identical to virgin copper. Furthermore, innovations in closed-loop recycling systems, where manufacturers design products for easy disassembly and recovery, are helping to maximize copper reuse in industries such as electronics and automotive. As technological advancements continue to improve recycling efficiency, copper scrap is becoming an increasingly viable and sustainable alternative to mined copper.

Which Industries Are Driving the Demand for Copper Scrap?

The demand for copper scrap is being propelled by multiple industries, with the electrical and electronics sector leading the charge. Copper is a critical component in power transmission lines, circuit boards, motors, and renewable energy systems, making recycled copper an attractive alternative for manufacturers looking to reduce costs and improve sustainability. The automotive industry, particularly with the rise of electric vehicles (EVs), has also emerged as a significant consumer of copper scrap. EVs require up to four times more copper than conventional vehicles, and the use of recycled copper in batteries, wiring harnesses, and charging infrastructure is rapidly increasing. The construction sector remains a major driver, utilizing recycled copper for plumbing, roofing, and HVAC systems due to its durability and resistance to corrosion. Additionally, the renewable energy industry is fueling demand for copper scrap, as wind turbines, solar panels, and energy storage systems rely heavily on copper for efficient energy transfer. The shipbuilding, aerospace, and industrial machinery sectors are also integrating recycled copper into their supply chains, recognizing its cost benefits and sustainability advantages. With rising investments in green infrastructure and electrification projects worldwide, copper scrap continues to gain importance as a key raw material.

What Factors Are Driving the Growth of the Copper Scrap Market?

The growth in the copper scrap market is driven by several factors, including the increasing adoption of sustainable manufacturing practices, government regulations promoting metal recycling, and advancements in copper recovery technologies. The rising costs and limited availability of mined copper have encouraged industries to turn to recycled copper as a more cost-effective and environmentally friendly option. Additionally, stringent environmental policies, such as the European Union’s Circular Economy Action Plan and China’s tightened regulations on metal waste imports, have spurred the development of domestic recycling infrastructure in multiple regions. The growing demand for electric vehicles, renewable energy systems, and 5G telecommunications infrastructure has further amplified the need for high-quality recycled copper. Furthermore, the expansion of urbanization and construction activities in developing economies is driving copper scrap collection and reprocessing efforts. The increasing collaboration between scrap collectors, smelters, and end-user industries is also streamlining the supply chain, ensuring higher efficiency in copper recycling. With sustainability becoming a central focus for governments and businesses alike, the copper scrap market is poised for sustained growth, reinforcing its role as a critical component of the global copper supply chain.

Report Scope

The report analyzes the Copper Scrap market, presented in terms of market value (US$ Thousand). The analysis covers the key segments and geographic regions outlined below.

Segments: Feed Material Type (Old Scrap Feed Material, New Scrap Feed Material); Grade Type (Bare Bright Grade, #1 Copper Scrap Grade, #2 Copper Scrap Grade, Other Grades); Application (Brass Mills Application, Wire Rod Mills Application, Ingots Makers Application, Other Applications); End-Use (Electrical and Electronics End-Use, Building and Construction End-Use, Industrial Machinery and Equipment End-Use, Transportation Equipment End-Use, Consumer and General Products End-Use)

Geographic Regions/Countries: World; United States; Canada; Japan; China; Europe (France; Germany; Italy; United Kingdom; Spain; Russia; and Rest of Europe); Asia-Pacific (Australia; India; South Korea; and Rest of Asia-Pacific); Latin America (Argentina; Brazil; Mexico; and Rest of Latin America); Middle East (Iran; Israel; Saudi Arabia; United Arab Emirates; and Rest of Middle East); and Africa.

Key Insights:

• Market Growth: Understand the significant growth trajectory of the Old Scrap Feed Material segment, which is expected to reach US$62.1 Billion by 2030 with a CAGR of a 8.5%. The New Scrap Feed Material segment is also set to grow at 5.2% CAGR over the analysis period.
• Regional Analysis: Gain insights into the U.S. market, estimated at $18.7 Billion in 2024, and China, forecasted to grow at an impressive 11.4% CAGR to reach $22.1 Billion by 2030. Discover growth trends in other key regions, including Japan, Canada, Germany, and the Asia-Pacific.

Why You Should Buy This Report:

• Detailed Market Analysis: Access a thorough analysis of the Global Copper Scrap Market, covering all major geographic regions and market segments.
• Competitive Insights: Get an overview of the competitive landscape, including the market presence of major players across different geographies.
• Future Trends and Drivers: Understand the key trends and drivers shaping the future of the Global Copper Scrap Market.
• Actionable Insights: Benefit from actionable insights that can help you identify new revenue opportunities and make strategic business decisions.

Key Questions Answered:

• How is the Global Copper Scrap Market expected to evolve by 2030?
• What are the main drivers and restraints affecting the market?
• Which market segments will grow the most over the forecast period?
• How will market shares for different regions and segments change by 2030?
• Who are the leading players in the market, and what are their prospects?

Report Features:

• Comprehensive Market Data: Independent analysis of annual sales and market forecasts in US$ Million from 2024 to 2030.
• In-Depth Regional Analysis: Detailed insights into key markets, including the U.S., China, Japan, Canada, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, Middle East, and Africa.
• Company Profiles: Coverage of players such as Aurubis AG, European Metal Recycling Ltd., Glencore International AG, Jansen Recycling Group BV, Kuusakoski Oy and more.
• Complimentary Updates: Receive free report updates for one year to keep you informed of the latest market developments.

Select Competitors (Total 32 Featured):

• Aurubis AG
• European Metal Recycling Ltd.
• Glencore International AG
• Jansen Recycling Group BV
• Kuusakoski Oy
• Sims Limited
• AMES Copper Group, LLC.
• Enerpat America
• Global Metals & Iron Inc.
• Jain Resource Recycling Pvt Ltd.
• KGHM Metraco S.A.
• Metal Care Alloys Limited
• Perniagaan Logam Panchavarnam Sdn Bhd

Tariff Impact Analysis: Key Insights for 2025

Global tariff negotiations across 180+ countries are reshaping supply chains, costs, and competitiveness. This report reflects the latest developments as of April 2025 and incorporates forward-looking insights into the market outlook.

The analysts continuously track trade developments worldwide, drawing insights from leading global economists and over 200 industry and policy institutions, including think tanks, trade organizations, and national economic advisory bodies. This intelligence is integrated into forecasting models to provide timely, data-driven analysis of emerging risks and opportunities.

What’s Included in This Edition:

• Tariff-adjusted market forecasts by region and segment
• Analysis of cost and supply chain implications by sourcing and trade exposure
• Strategic insights into geographic shifts

Buyers receive a free July 2025 update with:

• Finalized tariff impacts and new trade agreement effects
• Updated projections reflecting global sourcing and cost shifts
• Expanded country-specific coverage across the industry