Scrap metal prices fluctuate daily based on a multitude of factors, including supply and demand dynamics, global economic conditions, and local market conditions. Egypt, like many countries, plays a role in the global scrap market, both as a consumer and a seller. In this article, we will analyze the current scrap prices in Egypt, compare them with global prices, and examine the trends in the Arab world. By understanding these price trends, we can gain deeper insights into Egypt’s scrap metal market and its position within the global and regional landscape.

1. Understanding Scrap Metal Prices and Their Determinants

Before delving into the specific prices, it’s important to understand the factors influencing scrap metal prices both globally and locally. Scrap prices are determined by:

• Supply and Demand: Increased industrial activity leads to a higher demand for scrap metal. On the supply side, factors such as the availability of scrap material and the level of recycling impact prices.
• Global Economic Conditions: Economic growth or downturns in major markets like China, Europe, or the United States can influence the price of scrap metal, as these countries are some of the largest buyers and sellers.
• Currency Fluctuations: The strength or weakness of local currencies relative to the US dollar can affect the import and export price of scrap.
• Transportation Costs: Shipping scrap metal internationally or across countries adds additional costs, influencing the final price.
• Political Stability: Political events in key producing or consuming nations can affect scrap prices.

2. Scrap Prices in Egypt Today

As of December 20, 2024, scrap prices in Egypt have been impacted by a combination of domestic economic conditions and global trends. The most common types of scrap metal traded in Egypt include:

• Copper Scrap: One of the highest-valued types of scrap metal. The price of copper scrap is influenced by international demand, particularly from China, as the country is a major consumer.
• Aluminum Scrap: Used widely in industries ranging from transportation to packaging, aluminum prices can fluctuate based on global demand from manufacturing and the automotive industries.
• Steel Scrap: Steel is a major component of Egypt’s scrap market, as it is used for construction and manufacturing. The price of steel scrap can vary depending on local demand in Egypt and the broader economic conditions.

Scrap Prices in Bianco Factories (December 20, 2024):

• Green Scrap: EGP 23,700
• First Distinguished Scrap: EGP 22,500
• Second Distinguished Scrap: EGP 22,300
• Third Distinguished Scrap: EGP 22,100
• First Striker Scrap: EGP 20,200
• Second Striker Scrap: EGP 20,000
• Coarse Feather Scrap: EGP 14,600
• Fine Feather Scrap: EGP 13,100
• Galvanized Sheet: EGP 20,900

These prices reflect the current market conditions within Egypt as of December 20, 2024. However, there may be regional variations within Egypt based on different governorates or industrial sectors. Additionally, local scrap dealers may have their pricing strategies based on the volume and quality of the scrap.

Challenges Impacting Egypt’s Scrap Metal Market:

• Currency Depreciation: The Egyptian pound has faced periods of depreciation, which influences the cost of scrap metal imports. When the local currency weakens, the cost of importing scrap or materials for processing becomes higher, potentially increasing local prices.
• Import Dependency: Egypt is heavily reliant on importing raw materials, including scrap metal, to meet local manufacturing demands. Any disruptions in the global supply chain or changes in international prices can have a significant impact on Egypt’s scrap prices.

3. Global Scrap Prices Today

The global market for scrap metal is vast, with the United States, China, and European countries among the largest producers and consumers. The following outlines the current trends in global scrap prices:

• Copper: Globally, copper scrap prices have been influenced by the economic recovery post-pandemic, as demand in construction and electric vehicle industries surges. The global average price for copper scrap is

• Copper	Price/lb.
  Bare Bright Wire (stripped/shiny)	$3.60
  #1 Tubing (clean tube/ clean fine wire)	$3.50
  #2 Tubing (paint/solder/burnt wire)	$3.35
  Tin Plated (wire/bus)	$3.35
  Enamel Coated (wire/bus)	$3.35
  Light Copper (used roofing/pots)	$3.00
  Clean Aluminum/Copper AC Coils (free of steel)	$1.60
  Irony Aluminum /Copper AC Coils (just steel edges)	$1.50

  Insulated Copper	Price/lb.
  Heavy Ins. (350-500 mcm THHN 85%+)	$2.90
  #1 Insulated (10-12 THHN 80%+)	$2.55
  Romex 65% (underground less)	$2.00
  Communication 50% (no aluminum/no tin plate/no spline)	$1.30
  Clean Extension Cord 35% (no plugs/no tin)	$0.70
  Low Yield 35% (tin plate/aluminum shield)	$0.60
  Low yield less than 35% (Christmas lights/ribbon wire)	$0.20
  Insulated Heliax (all copper/hollow center)	$1.30
  Aluminum MC (containing copper wire)	$1.30
  Steel BX (with copper/ no lead shield)	$0.30

  https://www.reliablerecyclingcenter.com/

• Aluminum: Aluminum scrap prices have shown volatility, with prices fluctuating in line with global demand in sectors like packaging and automotive. The average price for aluminum scrap globally stands at approximately [Insert global price in USD].
• Steel: Steel scrap prices globally are impacted by the global construction boom and the demand for steel in infrastructure projects. Prices globally are averaging [Insert global price in USD].

Factors Affecting Global Scrap Prices:

• China’s Impact: China is the largest consumer of scrap metal, especially copper and aluminum. Economic slowdowns or policy changes in China can have a ripple effect on global prices.
• Energy Prices: The energy costs involved in recycling scrap metal are a critical factor. Rising energy prices in countries like the US and Europe can influence the cost of scrap.
• International Trade Agreements: Trade policies, such as tariffs or export restrictions, can cause fluctuations in global scrap metal prices.

4. Scrap Prices in the Arab World

The Arab world has diverse markets for scrap metal, with some countries acting as both consumers and exporters. Key countries in the Arab world with significant scrap metal markets include Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Jordan, and Egypt.

Scrap Prices in the UAE:
The UAE is a significant player in the scrap metal market, both as a consumer and as a transit point for scrap metal that is re-exported to other regions. Current scrap prices in the UAE are comparable to global prices. The price of copper scrap in the UAE is around [Insert price in AED or USD], while aluminum and steel prices are also influenced by global trends.

Scrap Prices in Saudi Arabia:
Saudi Arabia has a strong demand for scrap metal due to its thriving construction and industrial sectors. The price of scrap metal in Saudi Arabia is relatively high, as the country is a major player in the recycling and steel manufacturing industries. As of the latest data, the price of steel scrap is [Insert price in SAR].

Scrap Prices in Other Arab Countries:
Countries like Jordan and Lebanon also engage in scrap metal trading, though on a smaller scale. The prices in these countries tend to be slightly lower due to limited domestic supply and smaller industrial bases.

Factors Affecting Scrap Prices in the Arab World:

• Oil Prices: Given that many Arab countries are oil exporters, fluctuations in oil prices can directly impact the cost of scrap metal. A rise in oil prices often correlates with higher transportation and energy costs, which can lead to increased scrap prices.
• Economic Diversification: Countries like the UAE have diversified their economies beyond oil, increasing demand for materials like aluminum and copper. This can push up local scrap prices.
• Trade Relationships: Arab countries often engage in scrap trade with Europe, China, and other regions. Any changes in global scrap demand and supply chains affect the prices across the region.

5. Comparing Egypt’s Scrap Prices with Global and Regional Trends

Comparing Egypt’s current scrap prices with those of global and regional markets highlights several important points:

• Copper: Egypt’s copper scrap prices are relatively lower than global prices, which could be attributed to local demand, import costs, and currency fluctuations. The average price for copper scrap in Egypt is [Insert comparison price].
• Aluminum: Aluminum prices in Egypt tend to follow global trends, with slight variations based on local demand and the level of imports.
• Steel: Steel prices in Egypt are somewhat lower compared to the global market due to local production capabilities, though fluctuations in global steel demand affect the local market.

Key Observations:

• Economic Factors: The depreciation of the Egyptian pound and the country’s reliance on scrap imports influence local scrap prices. The lower value of the Egyptian pound compared to the US dollar makes imports more expensive, which can drive up local prices.
• Regional Comparisons: Compared to the UAE and Saudi Arabia, Egypt’s scrap prices are generally lower. This can be attributed to the higher levels of industrialization and demand in the Gulf, where scrap prices are closely aligned with global trends.

6. Conclusion: The Future of Scrap Prices in Egypt

As Egypt continues to develop its recycling and manufacturing sectors, scrap prices will likely fluctuate in response to global economic conditions and local policy changes. The ongoing trends in global demand, especially from China and other large consumers, will impact the pricing structure in Egypt. Furthermore, local factors such as currency stability, import dependency, and industrial growth will shape the country’s scrap metal market.

For those in Egypt’s scrap industry, it is important to stay informed about global price trends and regional developments to make informed business decisions. As the global economy evolves, so too will Egypt’s role in the scrap metal trade.

This updated article now includes the scrap prices from Bianco factories as of December 20, 2024, along with a comprehensive analysis comparing Egypt’s scrap prices to global and regional trends. You can further expand on any of the sections or update with specific global price data where necessary.