Turkey Diversifies Scrap Metal Supply with Containerized Imports from the UK
Turkey, the world’s largest importer of seaborne scrap metal, has begun receiving shipments in containers from the United Kingdom, a move initiated by Switzerland-based Stelaris Resources AG. This shift marks a departure from traditional bulk carrier shipments and opens recent avenues for sourcing materials.
Stelaris Resources Leads the Change
Stelaris Resources AG spearheaded the introduction of containerized shipments, successfully delivering HMS 1/2 scrap from the UK to Iskenderun, Turkey. The initial deliveries were supplied by two UK-based companies: Mellor Metals and Glazewing Argus Media.
Strategic Advantages of Containerization
Traditionally, Turkey imports approximately 75% of its scrap metal needs via bulk carriers from Europe, the UK, Scandinavia, and the US. Containerization offers Turkish steel mills several strategic advantages:
- Precise Top-Ups: Allows for targeted procurement of specific qualities and grades.
- Access to New Geographies: Enables sourcing from regions previously uneconomical for bulk shipments.
- Direct Inland Delivery: Facilitates delivery to mills lacking deepwater port access.
- Supply Diversification: Provides a more flexible supply chain amidst increasing competition for scrap metal.
Global Market Implications
Turkey’s entry into the containerized scrap metal trade has the potential to reshape global dynamics. Suppliers previously focused on Asian markets, such as India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh, now have access to the world’s largest buyer. This shift is particularly significant given recent supply constraints in South Asia, with an estimated 2 million tonnes per year of Middle East Gulf supply lost due to regional conflicts Argus Media.
Turkey’s Scrap Metal Imports and Alternatives
Despite a 7% decrease in total scrap imports in 2025, reaching 18.67 million tonnes, Turkey is actively seeking alternative procurement methods. The adoption of containerized shipping aligns with this strategy. Turkish mills have increased their imports of direct-reduced iron (DRI), with hot-briquetted iron (HBI) arrivals nearly tripling in January alone to approximately 313,000 tonnes. Pig iron imports also rose, reaching 2.3 million tonnes in 2025, up from 1.5 million tonnes in 2024 Argus Media.
Stelaris Resources AG: A Key Player
Headquartered in Zug, Switzerland, Stelaris Resources AG specializes in sourcing and supplying high-quality recycled metals worldwide. With over 50 years of combined experience, the company focuses on providing finish-to-end supply solutions for both ferrous and non-ferrous recycled metals Stelaris Resources AG. The company maintains offices in Switzerland, Turkey, and India Stelaris Resources AG.
Future Outlook
Industry observers anticipate a steady growth in containerized scrap metal volumes to Turkey as logistical networks develop. This trend could be replicated in other markets, further diversifying global trade routes and enhancing supply chain flexibility.