SHANGHAI, Oct. 11 (SMM) –Raw materials restocking was up at 70% of the surveyed aluminum extrusion producers ahead of the 8-day Chinese holidays, according to SMM’s survey. 

Aluminum extrusion producers stepped up purchases of raw materials in late September, maintaining stocks sufficient for 7 days of production compared with 4.5 days in August. Most of the surveyed aluminum extrusion producers, which used to operate normally during the holidays, actually took a 3-5 day break during this year’s 8-day Chinese holidays due to gloomy aluminum processing industry. However, medium and large producers maintained production during the holidays. Meanwhile, aluminum extrusion producers increased their purchases of aluminum rods against higher casting costs.