Global Scrap Inventory Trends Signal Market Readiness

As steel demand patterns shift globally, recent inventory data from key Asian economies offers valuable insight into near-term supply trends. SteelBazaar reviews weekly scrap stock movements from South Korea, India, China, and Japan, revealing nuanced dynamics in their steel supply chains.

📊 Inventory Highlights (April–May 2025)
Country    Peak Inventory (mmt)    Current (19-May)    Trend Summary
South Korea    0.93 (Apr 24)    0.81    Peaked and now easing – active melting phase underway
China    0.76 (May 9)    0.72    Steady build-up indicating cautious restocking
India    0.68 (Apr 24)    0.61    Stable trend with minor fluctuations
Japan    0.52 (Apr 24)    0.48    Flat inventory – subdued movement

🔍 SteelBazaar Insights:
South Korea continues to lead inventory levels, signaling robust furnace activity and strong steel output.
China’s gradual build-up reflects steady procurement by mills—potentially ahead of stimulus-driven demand.
India’s inventory stability suggests a well-balanced domestic scrap flow.
Japan maintains conservative stocking patterns, in line with slower production cycles.

📌 What This Means for Traders:
South Korea’s declining scrap could tighten bulk export availability. China’s restocking may lift raw material prices. For Indian scrap suppliers and buyers, timely positioning is key.