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| Germany ferrous scrap exports |
German Ferrous Scrap Exports Remain Stable Amid Shifting European Demand
German ferrous scrap exports remained stable in early 2026, reflecting balanced supply and demand conditions across Europe. German ferrous scrap exports reached 1.26 million tons, valued at €568 million, according to Destatis data. However, German ferrous scrap exports showed clear regional divergence across key European destinations. Italy imports increased nearly 20% year-on-year, driven by stronger electric arc furnace demand.
Meanwhile, Netherlands-bound shipments declined 19% year-on-year amid shifting logistics flows. As a result, German ferrous scrap exports redistributed across Southern and Northern European markets. This trend highlights evolving trade corridors within the European recycling steel ecosystem.
Price Stability and Structural Market Adjustments
German ferrous scrap exports supported stable domestic pricing throughout April despite macroeconomic pressures. E3 scrap held at €295 per ton, while E2/8 and E40 remained at €305 per ton. However, rising energy costs and geopolitical freight disruptions may increase volatility in May. Consequently, German ferrous scrap exports may face higher logistics-driven cost pressures. In contrast, 2025 data showed German ferrous scrap exports increased 5% year-on-year to 7.7 million tons. This growth confirms structural resilience despite weaker domestic steel production conditions. Therefore, export strength continues to offset declining import volumes into Germany’s steel sector.
ScrapInsight Commentary
German ferrous scrap exports demonstrate resilient trade balancing despite regional demand shifts and logistics disruption risks.
Price stability may persist short-term, but freight inflation could tighten margins for European traders.
Meanwhile, EAF-driven demand in Southern Europe may continue to support export competitiveness into mid-2026.
