Copper Foil Imports and Exports Decline MoM in April [SMM Analysis]

According to data from the General Administration of Customs, in April 2024, China's copper foil imports were approximately 7,401.18 mt, up 14.19% YoY but down 5.14% MoM. From January to April 2024, the cumulative import volume was about 29,371.26 mt, down 3.24% YoY.

In April 2024, China's copper foil import value was $123.5791 million, up 19.69% YoY but down 5.6% MoM. From January to April 2024, the cumulative import value was $488.9101 million, up 5.01% YoY.

In April 2024, China's copper foil exports were approximately 4,130.91 mt, down 11.72% YoY and 9.58% MoM. From January to April 2024, the cumulative export volume was about 16,091.19 mt, down 0.08% YoY.

In April 2024, China's copper foil export value was $48.5637 million, down 12.54% YoY and 10.43% MoM. From January to April 2024, the cumulative export value was $185.9246 million, down 3.03% YoY.

In April 2024, China's copper foil import and export volumes both declined MoM, with a trade deficit of about $75.02 million, down approximately $1.68 million from March's $76.7 million.

By country, in April 2024, the main importers for China's copper foil (excluding copper alloy foil) were Taiwan (4,106.15 mt), Malaysia (702.15 mt), and Luxembourg (514.04 mt).

In April 2024, the main export destinations for China's copper foil (excluding copper alloy foil) were Thailand (719.61 mt), Egypt (625.82 mt), and Malaysia (456.44 mt).

On the import side, although domestic orders in the home appliance, automotive, and server industries showed signs of recovery, the import volume did not increase due to continued losses in the SHFE/LME copper price ratio. On the export side, the overseas consumer electronics market entered a peak season, with relatively strong orders. Additionally, the operating rates at domestic copper foil enterprises quickly resumed in Q2, keeping copper foil export volumes high in March and April.

In May, domestic demand showed positive performance, with downstream restocking actively at copper-clad laminate plants. However, significant growth in copper foil imports is unlikely due to continued import losses. On the export side, overseas demand continued the positive trend from March and April, remaining in a peak season, and copper foil export volumes are expected to remain high.