Global aluminium scrap trade is undergoing a major reshuffle, with shifting demand patterns, tariff pressures, and regional recycling dynamics driving sharp changes in import rankings. Latest UN Comtrade data for the first half of 2025 shows India rising to the top as the largest importer, while China’s share has fallen dramatically.
Image used for representational purpose
The US has surged into second place on the back of tariff-driven demand, Germany has held steady despite industry headwinds, and Thailand has entered the top five, displacing South Korea.
India leads the market
India imported aluminium scrap worth USD 1,961 million in the first six months of 2025. That compares with USD 1,589 million during the same period in 2024. The increase of more than 23 per cent lifted India’s share of the top five importers from 30.8 per cent to 37.3 per cent. Volumes rose as well, climbing from 814,004 tonnes to 875,466 tonnes, a gain of 7.5 per cent.
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