Japanese copper smelters are cutting back concentrate processing due to falling treatment charges and rising global competition. Companies are shifting toward recycling-based operations, keeping scrap-derived refining lines while scaling down traditional smelting, highlighting the growing importance of recycled copper.

One and One Green Technologies is expanding into the e-waste recycling market in Metro Manila. The company processes electronic scrap and industrial waste into copper alloy ingots and other products. Analysts see Southeast Asia emerging as a key growth region for recycled copper supply.

Nexans is developing a large copper recycling center capable of processing up to 80,000 tonnes of scrap annually. The project aims to reduce reliance on primary copper and improve supply resilience. The company highlighted recycled copper as a strategic resource amid tightening global supply.

The 2026 SMM (3rd) Global Renewable Metal Industry Chain Summit & Battery Recycling Forum will be held in Tokyo, Japan, from May 11–12, 2026. The summit aims to bring together leading global enterprises, research institutions, industry experts, and policymakers in the fields of renewable metals and battery recycling.

At the Phase II construction site of Yukun Materials Technology Co., Ltd.'s recycled copper ingot project, it can be seen that the main structure of the plant has been completed. The entire project is expected to be fully finished in the second quarter. With a total investment of 1.08 billion yuan for Phase II, the annual production capacity of recycled copper ingots is projected to reach 100,000 tons once it reaches full operation.

New Zealand recycling technology company Mint Innovation has partnered with electronics manufacturers to recover copper from electronic waste and reuse it in the production of specific electronic components. The initiative demonstrates the potential of closed-loop recycling within the electronics industry while reducing reliance on primary copper mining. Industry observers believe similar models could gradually expand across global electronics supply chains in the coming years.