Aluminum Scrap Export to China: 2026 Buyer's Guide (ISRI + CFR)

Why China Dominates Aluminum Scrap Imports

China's aluminum smelting and recycling industry has grown exponentially over the past two decades. With domestic demand for secondary aluminum exceeding 12 million metric tons per year, Chinese foundries and smelters rely heavily on imported scrap to meet production targets. According to the Bureau of International Recycling (BIR), secondary aluminum production now accounts for over 20% of total global aluminum output.

The country's strict environmental regulations under the "National Sword" policy (implemented in 2018) reshaped the global scrap trade. Today, only high-quality, properly sorted aluminum scrap meets China's import standards — making reliable suppliers like Nautica Metal Scrap B.V. essential partners for Chinese buyers. If you're new to importing scrap metal from Europe, be sure to review the regulatory landscape first. For safe importing practices, see our guide on how to import scrap metal safely.

Key ISRI Grades for the Chinese Market

Understanding ISRI (Institute of Scrap Recycling Industries) classifications is critical for both buyers and sellers:

CFR Pricing and Payment Terms

Most aluminum scrap transactions between European suppliers and Chinese buyers use CFR (Cost and Freight) pricing to major ports including Shanghai, Ningbo, Qingdao, and Tianjin. For a detailed comparison of shipping terms, see our guide on CIF vs FOB in scrap metal trading.

Typical payment structures include:

Pricing is typically benchmarked against LME (London Metal Exchange) aluminum prices, with discounts ranging from $50-$200/MT depending on grade, quality, and volume. For the latest market statistics, see Statista's metals data.

Customs and Documentation Requirements

Exporting aluminum scrap to China requires meticulous documentation:

Quality Standards and Contamination Limits

China's General Administration of Customs enforces strict quality thresholds:

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Failing to meet these standards results in cargo rejection at port, demurrage charges, and potential blacklisting of the supplier. Learn how to verify supplier quality before placing orders.

Choosing a Reliable European Supplier

When sourcing aluminum scrap from Europe, Chinese buyers should evaluate suppliers based on:

Nautica Metal Scrap B.V., based in the Netherlands, offers all of these qualifications with direct access to Rotterdam — Europe's largest port and a major hub for metal scrap exports to Asia.

Market Outlook for 2026

The aluminum scrap market is expected to remain strong through 2026, driven by:

Buyers looking to secure long-term supply contracts should act early, as premium grades are increasingly allocated months in advance.