Copper; waste and scrap

HS code 740400 covers the trade of copper waste and scrap, a critical component in the global copper supply chain. Copper is a highly versatile and valuable metal, widely used in construction, electronics, transportation, and various industrial applications. The recycling and reuse of copper waste and scrap play a vital role in meeting the growing demand for copper, while also promoting sustainable resource management and reducing environmental impact.

The production of copper from waste and scrap involves several key steps. First, the scrap is collected and sorted by type and purity. It is then processed through shredding, melting, and refining to remove impurities and recover the pure copper. Advanced techniques, such as pyrometallurgical and hydrometallurgical processes, are used to extract and purify the copper from the scrap material.

The main inputs required for the copper waste and scrap industry include the scrap copper itself, which can come from a variety of sources, such as 740310 Copper; waste and scrap, 740400 Copper; waste and scrap, and 740700 Copper; articles thereof. Additionally, the industry relies on specialized equipment and machinery for collection, sorting, shredding, melting, and refining the copper scrap.

The primary output of the copper waste and scrap industry is refined copper, which can be used as a raw material for a wide range of industries, including 740311 Copper; refined, unwrought, 740312 Copper; refined, in the form of billets, wire-bars or ingots, and 740321 Copper; alloys, unwrought. The recovered copper is then reintroduced into the global copper supply chain, contributing to the efficient and sustainable use of this valuable resource.