US Copper Scrap Exports to China Decline, Asian Supply Chain Rises

Published: May 22, 2025 11:48

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Data from March to April showed that US copper scrap exports to China exhibited a "double decline" pattern: In March, exports stood at 22,500 mt (down 28.41% MoM and 51.51% YoY), with its market share in China dropping to 11.85% and its ranking falling to second place. In April, although exports increased slightly by 4.98% MoM to 23,600 mt, they still fell sharply by 43.98% YoY, with its market share further shrinking to 11.52% and its ranking being overtaken by Thailand, slipping to third place. In stark contrast, the Asian supply chain has risen strongly. Japan's exports to China reached 32,700 mt in April, up 21.02% MoM and defying the trend with a 13.78% YoY increase, securing the top spot with a 15.96% share. Additionally, in the Thai market, exports for the month reached 25,000 mt, surging by 26.9% MoM and soaring by 60.98% YoY, propelling Thailand to become the second-largest supplier. The synergy within the Asian regional supply chain is becoming increasingly prominent.

Data Source Statement: Except for publicly available information, all other data are processed by SMM based on publicly available information, market communication, and relying on SMM‘s internal database model. They are for reference only and do not constitute decision-making recommendations.

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