SMM Weekly Review: Alumina Prices Seen Stabilizing with Mild Upsurge Amid Strong Demand

[SMM Weekly Review: Alumina Demand Remains Strong, Spot Prices Expected to Stabilize with Slight Increase in the Short Term]

Supply side, domestic alumina weekly operating rate remains stable and positive, with a slight increase in supply. Demand side, some aluminum smelters in south-west China have maintenance plans, but due to new capacity and full production in north-west China, as well as some stocking demand, overall alumina demand remains strong. Overall, the tight supply pattern of alumina remains unchanged, providing some support for alumina prices. However, due to the significant increase in alumina costs, according to SMM's daily China aluminum profit and cost model, the average profitability of China's aluminum industry has turned to a loss. The high alumina prices have also somewhat suppressed downstream stocking demand. In summary, spot alumina prices are expected to stabilize with a slight increase in the short term.