China’s Alumina Import Window Has Remained Closed since January 18

Aluminum associations from the United States, Europe, Canada and Japan highlighted OECD data showing that global aluminum-sector subsidies totaled USD118.3 billion during 2005-2024, with China accounting for USD101.4 billion, or 86% of the total. In 2024 alone, China received USD10.2 billion of the sector’s USD11.1 billion global subsidies. Industry groups noted that China’s share of global primary aluminum output has risen from 11% to 61% over the past two decades, with subsidy-supported growth extending into downstream processing and recycling. The associations called for coordinated measures, including import monitoring systems, tariff alignment and potential scrap export restrictions, to strengthen supply-chain security and support fair competition.

The Aluminum Federation (ALFED) launched its 2026-2027 Positions & Strategic Priorities Framework during a House of Lords reception in London. Discussions focused on energy competitiveness, recycling and remelting capacity, circular economy development, CBAM alignment and supply-chain resilience. UK Industry Minister Chris McDonald highlighted the importance of expanding domestic aluminum processing, recycling and value-added manufacturing. ALFED noted that the UK aluminum industry supports more than 108,000 jobs and contributes around £9.4 billion in GVA, while continuing to face challenges from high energy costs, investment pressures and evolving trade dynamics. Industry participants called for stronger policy support to enhance long-term competitiveness and resilience.