EU Scrap Exports Decline to 8.1 Million Tons in 1H2025 Amid Shifting Trade Patterns

EU Scrap Exports Decrease in First Half of 2025

European Union scrap exports fell by 0.9% in the first half of 2025 compared to 2024, totaling 8.11 million tons. This decline reflects a cautious global demand amid changing trade dynamics. Despite the overall drop, Turkey emerged as the dominant importer, receiving approximately 70% of the EU’s ferrous scrap shipments, amounting to 5.57 million tons, a significant 15.3% year-on-year increase. Other important importers include Egypt, India, and Pakistan, which together account for 85% of EU scrap exports.

June 2025 saw the lowest monthly export volumes since September 2024, with the EU exporting 1.09 million tons, down 6.9% year-on-year and 4.4% month-on-month. Turkish imports surged by 28.1% compared to June 2024, highlighting its critical role in absorbing EU scrap exports. However, Egypt, India, and Pakistan experienced substantial declines in monthly and yearly import volumes, indicating varied demand across regions.

Key Exporters and Steel Production Trends in the EU

The largest scrap exporters within the EU in the first half of 2025 included the Netherlands, Belgium, Poland, Germany, and Denmark. The Netherlands led with 1.88 million tons, marking a notable 43% increase year-on-year. Meanwhile, Belgium’s exports dipped by 4.4%. These export patterns underscore shifting regional supply chains and competitive positioning.

Steel production in the EU continued its modest growth, rising 2.6% year-on-year to 129.5 million tons in 2024. Contrarily, global steel output contracted by 0.9% to 1.84 billion tons, reflecting broader industry pressures. The reduced EU scrap exports align with these production shifts, impacting supply-demand balances within the ferrous scrap market.

SuperMetalPrice Commentary:

The decline in EU scrap exports to 8.1 million tons signals a recalibration in the global ferrous scrap market. Turkey’s rising scrap imports position it as a key regional hub, benefiting from increased supply amid softer demand in Egypt, India, and Pakistan. Meanwhile, varied export performances across EU countries highlight competitive adjustments in sourcing and logistics.

As the EU steel industry grows moderately, it will likely influence scrap demand and trade flows. Market participants should monitor Turkey’s consumption trends and global steel output changes closely. These factors will shape ferrous scrap pricing and availability through 2025, underlining the importance of flexible supply chains and strategic sourcing.