Aluminum Import And Export: Shifts In Global Aluminum Ingot Trade Patterns, Aluminum Imports From Russia Grew

Customs data indicates: From January to September 2023, China’s primary aluminum imports totaled 956,100 mt, up 163.93% YoY, and exports were 112,900 mt, down 41.31% YoY. The net import was 843,200 mt, up 496.16% YoY.

From an import source perspective, in September 2023, primary aluminum imports mainly came from Russia, India, Australia, etc. Specifically, September 2023 saw about 152,900 mt from Russia, up 234.77% YoY and 16.58% MoM, making up 76.15% of total imports, and ranking first.

In 2023, changes in international aluminum ingot trade patterns largely shut down domestic import opportunities, though some Russian aluminum continued to enter. Considering existing long-term import contracts and expected import profitability changes, SMM predicts that 2023's net primary aluminum imports might surpass 1.06 million mt, up 97% YoY.