Hongqiao Holdings Plans $9B Capex in 2026, Focusing on Yunnan Aluminum Processing Upgrade

[SMM Aluminum News] Data from the China Motorcycle Chamber of Commerce shows motorcycle production and sales in April totaled 2.2789 million units and 2.2716 million units, up 8.35% and 11.67% MoM, and up 11.53% and 13.63% YoY. Exports reached 1.3725 million units, up 15.99% MoM and 14.29% YoY. In April, the industry saw steady expansion in both production and sales, with exports contributing significantly to the growth. From January to April, the sector maintained a positive trajectory, supported by robust foreign trade performance.

Supply disruptions linked to Middle East tensions and shipping issues around the Strait of Hormuz have tightened aluminum can availability in India, causing Diet Coke shortages across several cities. As the product relied heavily on aluminum cans, delays in shipments and higher logistics and insurance costs increased packaging pressure. Industry estimates showed imported aluminum cans from the UAE, Sri Lanka and Southeast Asia rose by about 25% to 30%, while domestic can makers were already operating near full capacity. Diet Coke has gradually returned to stores in 200 ml glass bottles, with prices rising to nearly INR 100 compared with around INR 30 for the previous can format.

Alunorte, the world’s largest alumina refinery, is accelerating the use of drone technology after investing about USD 633,000 in a fleet of 15 drones for equipment inspection, environmental monitoring and security management. The company said drones can replace some confined-space and high-altitude operations while reducing visual inspection time by around 80% and improving inspection accuracy. In the first three months of 2026, the program generated an estimated USD 1.19 million in financial returns through reduced downtime and lower scaffolding needs. Alunorte noted that drones combined with artificial intelligence and thermal imaging will further enhance operational efficiency, safety and sustainability management.