According to the latest data from the General Administration of Customs, China's exports of unwrought aluminum and aluminum semis reached 408,000 mt in February 2025, down 9.53% MoM and 12.70% YoY. The cumulative exports for the year totaled 859,000 mt, down 11.0% YoY. The SMM survey indicates that domestic aluminum enterprises are actively responding to adjustments in export policies by exploring East Asian markets and strengthening connections with companies in Japan, South Korea, and Southeast Asia. However, the current market generally shows a "high inquiry, low transaction" situation. This may be partly due to intensified fluctuations in international aluminum prices, leading to disagreements among buyers on price trends and a preference to delay orders. Additionally, while the East Asian market is a potential growth area, cautious purchase willingness among local enterprises, amid a slowing global economic growth and rising trade barriers, combined with intensified competition from low-cost aluminum semis from Russia and India, has further suppressed the conversion rate of China's aluminum product transactions. Aluminum semis exports are expected to remain weak MoM in March, and attention should be paid to changes in tariffs on overseas aluminum semis.
(The above information is based on market data collection and comprehensive evaluation by the SMM research team. The information provided herein is for reference only and does not constitute direct investment advice. Clients should make prudent decisions and not replace independent judgment with this information. Any decisions made by clients are not related to SMM.)
Data source: SMM Click on the SMM Industry Database for more information
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