U.S. Exports Of Copper Scrap, By Country Or Locality

This table presents detailed data on the quantities and values of copper scrap exported from the United States to various countries and localities, distinguishing between unalloyed copper scrap and copper-alloy scrap. This information is crucial for understanding the flow of recyclable copper materials in global trade, which has significant economic and industrial implications. Copper scrap serves as a vital raw material for manufacturing and construction industries worldwide, reducing the need for primary copper mining and contributing to sustainable resource management. Tracking export destinations and volumes helps policymakers and industry stakeholders monitor market demand, supply chain dynamics, and the competitiveness of U.S. copper scrap in the international marketplace.

In 2021, the total exports of unalloyed copper scrap reached 539,000 metric tons valued at $3.56 billion, while copper-alloy scrap exports totaled 378,000 metric tons with an estimated copper content of 246,000 metric tons and a value of $939 million. China remained the largest importer of unalloyed copper scrap, receiving 195,000 metric tons valued at $1.33 billion, underscoring its dominant role in global copper recycling. Canada followed as a significant market with 61,000 metric tons valued at $494 million. Malaysia and Korea also featured prominently, with Malaysia importing 63,900 metric tons of unalloyed scrap and 88,200 metric tons of alloy scrap, reflecting robust demand in Southeast Asia. Notably, the total export volume of unalloyed scrap in 2021 increased substantially from the 396,000 metric tons reported in 2020, indicating a strong rebound or growth in copper scrap trade. The diversity of export destinations, including European countries such as Belgium, Germany, and Spain, as well as emerging markets like India and Thailand, highlights the widespread industrial reliance on U.S. copper scrap across multiple regions.