The global scrap steel market is entering 2026 facing continued uncertainty, as subdued steel demand, record Chinese steel exports and slower-than-expected decarbonization efforts weighed on scrap consumption and prices throughout 2025.
Many steelmakers, particularly in Asia, increasingly turned to alternative feedstocks, while lower scrap prices and margin pressure challenged processors’ ability to invest in advanced sorting and upgrading technologies.
Despite near-term headwinds, scrap is widely expected to become an increasingly strategic raw material, with greater emphasis on supply security and the potential for tighter trade controls aimed at retaining material within producing regions. These trends raise questions over pricing, availability and long-term investment incentives across the scrap supply chain.
Against this backdrop, the sixth edition of the Steel Scrap 2026 conference, organized by Kallanish, will be held in Istanbul on 5 February. The event will bring together steelmakers, scrap suppliers, traders, miners, logistics providers and policymakers to examine market developments and outlooks for the year ahead.
Turkey’s role as host reflects its significant influence in global ferrous trade, as one of the world’s largest scrap importers and exporters.
The programme will feature perspectives from major steel-producing regions including Europe, the US, Turkey, India and China, with discussions covering export restrictions, tariffs, energy costs, raw material substitution trends and long-term procurement strategies. The event is expected to attract participants from more than 20 countries, highlighting its international scope.
MEsteel is the official media partner for Steel Scrap 2026 and is offering exclusive registration discounts for MEsteel members.
