SHANGHAI, Jul. 10 (SMM) – China exported 73,372 mt of alumina from January to May, a 366.2% surge YoY.

China’s alumina exports began to increase in April. Exports to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in April and May were 24,970 mt and 31,500 mt, 82% and 91% of China’s total exports, respectively. YTD exports through May to the UAE accounted for 77% of China’s total alumina exports.   

Domestic alumina prices averaged RMB 2,500/mt. Alumina prices in Guangxi were less than RMB 2,300/mt (ex-works). Prices of imported alumina at ports were higher at RMB 2,580/mt, precipitating a steep decline in sales volumes. Producers who signed long-term imported alumina contracts switched to domestic alumina since prices of domestic alumina were lower than imported material due to growing supply. Some imported alumina was re-exported to other countries.