Exporting Copper Scrap Market Price Levels Off in Tokyo

Market price of exporting copper scrap keeps flat around Tokyo. Chinese importers continue to show willingness to purchase Japanese copper scrap if the offer price is reasonable. Japanese dealers’ transaction price is 365-375 yen per kilogram for non-shredded brass based mix scrap, with relatively less iron and stainless steel, and 255-265 yen per kg for thin electric wire scrap with insulator (containing copper at 43-45%).

Chinese inspection was strengthened on Japanese scrap import to check radiation level after Japan Earthquake. Chinese scrap importers turned to cautious purchasing stances after the disaster. Meanwhile, Japanese large scrap exporter says Chinese importers basically show willingness to purchase Japanese copper scrap when there is no problem about the scrap quality. Another exporter source says some of Chinese importers are feeling electrolytic copper market price would upturn in July.

The current export market price is leveling off. Chinese importers request the price down when electrolytic copper market price is edging downward. Japanese scrap exporters presently pay 390-395 yen for brass based mix scrap and 270-275 yen for thin electric wire scrap with insulator.