The intra-EU28 imports of copper, aluminium, and nickel waste to Germany are projected to grow steadily over the coming years. In 2023, imports stood at a benchmark, which will increase to 1.4754 million metric tons by 2024—an estimated growth that continues through 2028, reaching 1.5952 million metric tons. Year-on-year variations show gradual increases, indicating consistent demand and reliance on secondary raw materials.
Key trends to watch for in the coming years include:
- The impact of EU regulations encouraging recycling and circular economy practices, which could affect supply and demand dynamics.
- Technological advancements in recycling processes, potentially increasing efficiency and capacity to handle waste imports.
- Market responses to changing commodity prices, as fluctuations influence the economic viability of recycling operations.
