[SMM Aluminum Flash News] RUSAL Says Low-Carbon Aluminum Can Support Azerbaijan’s Construction Decarbonisation

According to SMM market research, on May 19 2026, a spot cargo transaction of Guinean ore was identified, with a grade of around 44, and the average price converted to a 45/3 grade basis was reported at $68/dmt.

Greece’s Interministerial Committee for Strategic Investments has approved METLEN Energy & Metals’ EUR 300 million gallium expansion project linked to its existing bauxite mining and alumina refining operations at Aluminum of Greece. The project will also support the expansion of nearby bauxite mines and alumina facilities. Gallium is classified by the EU as a critical raw material used in semiconductors, photovoltaics, AI and defense technologies. METLEN said the investment aims to strengthen Europe’s domestic critical mineral supply chain, reduce import dependence and improve industrial resilience. The project is expected to receive about EUR 118 million in grants and tax incentives.

Constellium and Ryerson are attracting market attention as aluminum prices remain high amid global trade tensions. Constellium benefited from stronger packaging, automotive and aerospace demand, with Q4 2025 revenue rising 28% YoY to USD 2.2 billion and packaging and automotive rolled product shipments increasing 11%. The company also generated USD 110 million in free cash flow and continued share buybacks. In comparison, Ryerson’s aluminum business supported a 10.4% increase in aluminum revenue to USD 1.15 billion in 2025, but weaker manufacturing demand and debt pressure continued to weigh on sentiment. Over the past six months, Constellium shares rose 60.8% while Ryerson declined 6.6%.