- CR busheling prices lead weekly gains across clusters
- Demand remains need-based rather than aggressive
Foundry scrap prices across major domestic clusters recorded moderate increases w-o-w as of 10 March 2026, supported by steady demand from automotive, tractor, and engineering casting segments. At the same time, the limited availability of quality scrap material across major foundry hubs also contributed to the upward price movement.
Market sentiment remained firm during the week, although buying activity continued to be largely need-based, with most foundries maintaining cautious procurement strategies amid comfortable inventories. CR busheling prices increased higher than foundry plate cutting scrap across most clusters.
Western India: Kolhapur sees strongest price rise
Kolhapur market recorded the largest weekly price gains, supported by consistent demand from regional foundries and tight scrap supply in the local market.
CR-busheling (low Mn, 8×8/10×10) increased INR 800/t w-o-w to INR 42,000/t. Foundry plate cutting scrap (4-8 mm) rose INR 500/t to INR 38,500/t.
Market participants highlighted that the restricted inflow of prime grade scrap has tightened supply, prompting sellers to raise offers despite measured buying activity.
Southern India: Coimbatore and Chennai markets strengthen
Southern scrap markets also registered incremental gains, supported by stable demand from automotive component manufacturers and engineering casting units.
Coimbatore:
CR-busheling (low Mn) increased INR 500/t to INR 42,000/t.
Foundry plate cutting scrap (8-50 mm) edged up INR 200/t to INR 39,200/t.
Chennai:
CR-busheling (low Mn) rose INR 500/t to INR 41,500/t.
Foundry plate cutting scrap (8-50 mm) increased INR 200/t to INR 38,200/t.
Traders noted that scrap arrivals remained limited across southern clusters, while steady offtake from casting units kept the market tone firm.
Eastern India: Kolkata registers mild increase
In eastern India, Kolkata prices moved slightly higher, supported by steady demand and relatively tight supply conditions.
Foundry plate cutting scrap (4-8 mm) increased INR 300/t w-o-w to INR 38,300/t.
Participants stated that material availability in the region has slightly tightened, which helped support the price increase during the week.
Demand scenario
Demand from automotive components, tractor parts, and engineering casting units remained stable, providing consistent support to scrap consumption. Foundries catering to commercial vehicle and agricultural equipment manufacturers continued operating at steady capacity utilisation levels, maintaining regular raw material procurement.
However, most market participants indicated that procurement remained disciplined, with buyers focusing on immediate production requirements rather than aggressive inventory buildup.
Outlook
Foundry scrap prices are likely to remain firm with a potential upside in the near term, supported by limited material availability across major foundry clusters and steady casting demand. Additionally, tight domestic sourcing of prime-grade scrap and rising global energy and freight costs amid the ongoing Iran conflict may further add cost pressure to the metals value chain, potentially pushing scrap prices higher.
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