According to market data published on May 27, 2026, global ferrous scrap prices mostly increased by 1–3% over the course of May. The only exception was the Chinese import segment, where quotations declined due to weak buying activity and competition from domestic resources. For steel producers and metal product buyers, this dynamic is an important signal, as the cost of scrap directly impacts the cost of electric arc furnace (EAF) steelmaking.
Regional Scrap Price Dynamics
In Turkey, prices for imported scrap between April 24 and May 22 increased by 1.4% to $408.5/t CFR. This marked the highest level in recent months; however, by late May, the market gradually faced downward pressure from buyers due to weak demand for finished steel, cheaper Chinese billets, and a correction in freight rates.
The European Union market appeared stronger: in Germany, E3 scrap prices rose by 3.3% to €310/t ex-works, while in Italy they increased by 3% to €340/t ex-works. Quotations were supported by high capacity utilization at steel mills, limited generation of quality scrap, and logistical difficulties, including railway infrastructure repairs and barge transport issues in Germany.
In the United States, the market remained relatively stable but also showed moderate growth, with prices rising by 2.1% to $362.5/t FOB. Meanwhile, in China, domestic prices rose by 1.8%, while import prices dropped by 6.5%, indicating sufficient domestic supply and limited interest in more expensive foreign shipments.
Impact on the Steel Market and Solutions from winox.ua
Rising scrap costs create additional pressure on steelmakers, especially electric arc furnace operators, for whom this raw material is a key input in the production cycle. When scrap prices remain high, steelmakers are more likely to revise prices for rebar, merchant bars, sheet metal, and certain specialty steel grades.
For Ukrainian industrial companies, this highlights the need to plan procurement more carefully and consider external price signals before they are fully reflected in local price lists. Under these conditions, winox.ua helps clients mitigate procurement risks by ensuring reliable supplies of rolled metal, stainless steel, and non-ferrous metals, while partnering with trusted manufacturers. The company focuses on stability, certified quality, and transparent supply terms, which are particularly vital during periods of raw material market volatility.
Short-Term Expectations for Industrial Procurement
In the coming weeks, the Turkish market is likely to remain under pressure due to sluggish sales of finished steel products and sufficient scrap supply. Activity may partially recover after the holidays, but buyers will continue to use cheaper billets and local alternatives as leverage in negotiations with suppliers.
The European market has stronger fundamentals to maintain its position, as steel mills operate at high capacity and logistical constraints hinder the movement of raw materials between countries. At the same time, the seasonal slowdown in scrap collection and less active exports may curb the pace of further growth.
For buyers of rolled metal, the key takeaway is the necessity of prompt price monitoring and placing orders in advance. Even moderate fluctuations in scrap costs can quickly affect final steel prices, making a reliable supplier and predictable procurement terms essential factors for the competitiveness of industrial businesses.