The Southeast Asia and United States zinc scrap market is witnessing substantial growth, with the global market valued at USD 650 million in 2024 and projected to reach USD 980 million by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 6.1%. Meanwhile, the U.S. market is expected to expand from USD 1.8 billion to USD 2.4 billion by 2030, reflecting a CAGR of 4.3%. This uptrend is driven by rising infrastructure development across Southeast Asia and stringent environmental regulations in the U.S. promoting zinc recycling.
Zinc scrap comprises recycled materials recovered from industrial waste, galvanized steel, and brass alloys, processed for reuse in galvanizing, alloy production, and chemical manufacturing. The industry categorizes scrap into new (pre-consumer) and old (post-consumer) grades, with purity levels dictating market value. While Southeast Asia benefits from rapid industrialization in Vietnam and Indonesia, U.S. players like Sims Metal Management lead through advanced recycling technologies.
Download FREE Sample Report: https://www.24chemicalresearch.com/download-sample/221992/southeast-asia-united-states-zinc-scrap-market
Market Overview & Regional Analysis
Southeast Asia dominates zinc scrap consumption, accounting for over 60% of regional demand, fueled by construction booms in Vietnam and Thailand. The galvanizing sector absorbs most recycled zinc here, driven by anti-corrosion requirements for infrastructure projects. Indonesia’s smelting capacity expansion further supports market growth, though collection infrastructure remains fragmented across rural areas.
In contrast, the U.S. market thrives on mature recycling ecosystems, with over 65% of zinc supply coming from scrap. States like Texas and Ohio house major processing hubs, leveraging proximity to automotive and construction industries. Both regions face pricing pressures from LME zinc volatility, averaging USD 2,800-3,200/ton in 2023, creating margin uncertainties for processors.
Key Market Drivers and Opportunities
The market’s expansion stems from three core factors: construction sector growth (contributing 45% of demand), automotive industry reliance on galvanized components (30%), and circular economy mandates. Southeast Asia’s construction sector grows at 6% annually, while U.S. infrastructure bills inject billions into zinc-intensive projects. Emerging opportunities include:
- EV battery recycling – Zinc-based batteries represent 15% of automotive battery chemistries
- Advanced sorting technologies – AI-powered systems improve recovery rates by 15-25%
- Regional trade partnerships – U.S. exporters increasingly supply Asian galvanizers
Challenges & Restraints
Despite positive trends, the industry contends with significant hurdles:
- Price volatility – 30% annual LME price swings disrupt supply agreements
- Quality inconsistencies – Contaminated scrap requires costly refining
- Regulatory costs – U.S. EPA and Southeast Asian compliance expenses rose 18% since 2021
The informal recycling sector in Southeast Asia further complicates market dynamics, accounting for an estimated 40% of collections but often bypassing environmental standards.
Market Segmentation by Type
- Hot Dip Galvanizing
- Chemical Production
- Zinc Processing
- Pharmaceutical
- Other Industries
Market Segmentation by Application
- Galvanizing
- Alloys & Casting
- Brass & Bronze
- Other Applications
Key Market Players
- Sims Metal Management
- OmniSource Corporation
- European Metal Recycling
- HS Metal Recycling (Thailand)
- PVS Metals (Vietnam)
- Schnitzer Steel Industries
- Asia Recycling Pte Ltd
- Commercial Metals Company
Report Scope
This analysis covers the Southeast Asia and U.S. zinc scrap markets from 2024-2032, including:
- Volume and revenue forecasts by sub-region
- End-use industry demand patterns
- Competitive benchmarking of 15 major players
- Regulatory impact assessments
The research methodology combined:
- Primary interviews with 42 industry executives
- Plant-level capacity audits
- Trade flow analysis across 8 key ports
Access Full Report: https://www.24chemicalresearch.com/reports/221992/southeast-asia-united-states-zinc-scrap-market
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s driving zinc scrap demand in Southeast Asia?
Rapid infrastructure development and automotive sector growth, particularly in Vietnam and Indonesia.
How does U.S. recycling compare?
The U.S. achieves 80%+ zinc recycling rates versus Southeast Asia’s 50-60%, thanks to advanced processing infrastructure.
Which technologies impact the market most?
Sensor-based sorting systems and hydrometallurgical recovery methods significantly improve efficiency.
About 24chemicalresearch
Founded in 2015, 24chemicalresearch has rapidly established itself as a leader in chemical market intelligence, serving clients including over 30 Fortune 500 companies. We provide data-driven insights through rigorous research methodologies, addressing key industry factors such as government policy, emerging technologies, and competitive landscapes.
- Plant-level capacity tracking
- Real-time price monitoring
- Techno-economic feasibility studies
With a dedicated team of researchers possessing over a decade of experience, we focus on delivering actionable, timely, and high-quality reports to help clients achieve their strategic goals. Our mission is to be the most trusted resource for market insights in the chemical and materials industries.
Contact:
International: +1(332) 2424 294 | Asia: +91 9169162030
Website: https://www.24chemicalresearch.com/
Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/24chemicalresearch
- Top 10 Companies in the Natural Fiber Composite Material Industry (2025): Market Leaders Pioneering Sustainable Solutions - June 30, 2025
- Global Boron Nitride Coatings Market Research Report 2024(Status and Outlook) - June 30, 2025
- Global Xylenols Market Research Report 2024(Status and Outlook) - June 30, 2025