Inventory Buildup Did Not Continue; Spot Aluminum Stabilizes and Improves [SMM South China Aluminum Spot Daily Review]

Published: Sep 22, 2026 13:13 (GMT+8)

Save

SMM, September 22:

Aluminum prices continued to edge lower today, while the spot market stabilized and improved. The inventory buildup did not persist, with arrivals into China still limited. Market participants held prices firm and showed a more resolute attitude toward holding back from selling, with some even actively attempting to push prices higher. Mainstream transactions were concluded at a slight premium, and spot availability remained tight. With the two holidays approaching, stocking demand was released to some extent. Buying-side expectations turned more positive, with many following through and accepting the firm prices. Overall, the market showed a pattern of tight supply and strong demand, with brisk trading. Spot transactions were concentrated at premiums of 210–250 yuan/mt over the SHFE aluminum 2610 contract.

Data Source Statement: Except for publicly available information, all other data are processed by SMM based on publicly available information, market communication, and relying on SMM's internal database model. They are for reference only and do not constitute decision-making recommendations.

For any inquiries or for more information, please contact: lemonzhao@smm.cn

For more information on how to access our research reports, please contact:service.en@smm.cn

Related News

1 hour ago

EU Foil and CBAM: EU Foil imports fall 22.2%, while unit CBAM exposure edges higher under default values【SMM Analysis】

1 hour ago

2 hours ago

SHFE Aluminum Futures Decline, Central China Market Sees Weak Transactions and Discounted Prices

Today, SHFE aluminum futures slightly declined compared to yesterday's morning session, prompting traders holding goods in the central China market to actively raise their quotes. However, limited by weak actual purchasing sentiment among buying traders and downstream processing enterprises, transactions were poor, with sellers' transaction prices significantly deviating from their quotes. Ultimately, the actual transaction price range in the central China market was around a discount of 70-90 yuan/mt against the SHFE aluminum October contract.

2 hours ago

4 hours ago

Aluminum Prices Gain Phased Support as China-US Presidential Meeting Approaches and Destocking Accelerates [SMM Aluminum Morning Meeting Summary]

[Aluminum Prices Find Temporary Support as China-US Presidential Meeting Looms and Destocking Accelerates] Overall, aluminum prices are expected to consolidate at highs in the short term.

4 hours ago