Scrap metal prices soar as battle brews; Recyclers enjoy windfall, but makers and users of steel may seek federal intervention.

Waste News, March, 2004 by Truini, Joe

Byline: Joe Truini Soaring scrap steel prices have taken a bite out of steel manufacturers and product makers, and fears that the situation will get worse are fueling a potential row over free trade between scrap recyclers and scrap consumers. As the conflict even extends to different factions within the steel industry, a newly formed coalition may petition the federal government to limit scrap steel exports while scrap metal recyclers have vowed to protect free trade.

The world demand and, most significantly, the price of scrap steel have skyrocketed to historic highs over the last few months primarily due to a sharp increase in export demand. Some steel producers and steel consumers have already felt the pinch, and fellow industry members are...