Chinese Scrap Metal Prices Experience Modest Declines on the ScrapMonster Price Index

Copper Wire scrap 

As of March 31, 2025, Chinese scrap metal prices showed a modest decline across various categories on the ScrapMonster Price Index. Prices for copper, aluminum, stainless steel, and brass/bronze scraps all fell, while steel scrap prices remained unchanged.

Declines in Copper and Aluminum Scrap Prices

The prices for #1 Copper Bare Bright and #2 Copper Wire and Tubing both dropped by CNY 500 per metric ton (MT). Similarly, #1 Insulated Copper Wire 85% Recovery prices fell by CNY 250 per MT, while #2 Insulated Copper Wire 50% Recovery decreased by CNY 100 per MT.

Other copper scrap types also saw price reductions, including Copper Transformer scraps, which dropped by CNY 50 per MT, and Cu Yokes and Harness Wire 35% Recovery, which also saw a CNY 50 per MT decrease. Notably, the prices for Cu/Al Radiator scrap declined by CNY 100 per MT, and Heater Cores experienced a drop of CNY 150 per MT.

The aluminum market saw a decline as well. The price of 6063 Extrusions fell by CNY 100 per MT. Aluminum Ingots also recorded a decrease of CNY 100 per MT. In addition, Aluminum Radiators and Aluminum Transformers saw a fall of CNY 50 per MT each, while E.C Aluminum Wire prices dipped by CNY 100 per MT. Prices for Old Cast and Old Sheet scrap decreased by CNY 100 per MT each. UBC and Zorba 90% INF were both down by CNY 50 per MT.

Stainless Steel, Brass/Bronze, and Steel Scrap Market Trends

Stainless steel scrap prices followed a similar downward trend. 201 SS prices fell by CNY 50 per MT, while 304 SS Solid prices dropped by CNY 50 per MT. Additionally, 304 SS Turning and 309 SS and 316 SS Solid prices recorded declines of CNY 50 per MT and CNY 100 per MT, respectively. 310 SS scrap prices saw a CNY 150 per MT decrease, and Shred SS prices dropped by CNY 50 per MT.

In the brass/bronze category, Brass Radiator scrap prices fell by CNY 50 per MT. Both Red Brass and Yellow Brass prices declined by CNY 100 per MT each. Unlike other categories, steel scrap prices remained steady. #1 HMS and Cast Iron Scrap prices reported no changes, holding steady on the Index.