RMU October survey: Insights from industry voices

The latest RMU survey shows where the recycled metals industry currently stands, with perspectives gathered across the market from manufacturers and mills to scrap dealers and traders. This snapshot offers a quick view into how participants see supply and demand, pricing, challenges, and logistics. Given the current market conditions, there’s plenty to keep an eye on in the months ahead, especially as we get closer to winter.

Most respondents (68%) believe the scrap market is not in balance. Dealers and brokers especially note an oversupply, with prices reflecting these fluctuations. One scrap dealer/recycler shared that “Supply is larger than demand in the fourth quarter. Stainless steel is way oversupplied, copper undersupplied, and aluminum is somewhat in balance.” This sentiment was echoed by brokers, with one adding, “there is very little demand, but export restrictions could make things worse,” hinting at how regulatory limits on exports may further tilt the market.