LME Aluminum to Hover at Highs (2017-8-10)

Aluminium Ingot January Production Analysis & February Forecast

According to SMM's research findings, Yunnan Province is currently experiencing a dry season, with hydropower contribution remaining at a relatively low level. Enterprises have no immediate plans for production resumption and await clearer policy guidance from the power sector.

The implementation of Indonesia's ban on bauxite exports since June last year has led to bauxite surplus, brought challenges to consume domestically as the Indonesia's alumina plants have limited capacity. Ronald Sulistyanto, Chairman of the Indonesian Bauxite and Iron Ore Entrepreneurs Association (Asosiasi Pengusaha Bauksit dan Bijih Besi Indonesia - APB3I), highlighted the struggle to secure external investment for alumina plant projects, while some entrepreneurs are forced to cut costs or halt production. However, there is hope for relief through potential relaxation of the export ban policy. Efforts are underway to boost alumina production capacity, although challenges persist in addressing the surplus bauxite issue.

Export Volume Of Lithium Hexafluorophosphate In December

Aluminum prices have made a strong comeback over the past two days, but this is no time to cheer up since negative factors are simmering, SMM warns. 

LME aluminum should move at highs of USD 1,950-1,975/mt today.

LME market will reopen on Tuesday, and eyes should be price support at lows on Tuesday, both on the LME and SHFE market.

LME market will remain closed on Monday for the Easter, and base metals, after staging volatile movements last Friday, are expected to keep diverging on Monday.

On Friday’s afternoon business, SHFE 1705 tin drifted lower amid growing shorts, but finally closed up 920 yuan per tonne or 0.63 percent from the previous trading day. 

In the coming week, SHFE will see a shorter trading week for the 2017 Chinese Qingming Festival from Apr. 2-4.