SMM and VAA Advance Vietnam’s Aluminum Pricing System and International Cooperation

Representatives from SMM and the Vietnam Association of Aluminum Profile (VAA) during their meeting in Ho Chi Minh City on July 21, 2026

On July 21, 2026, a delegation from Shanghai Metals Market (SMM) visited the Vietnam Association of Aluminum Profile (VAA) to discuss the development of Vietnam’s aluminum industry, the establishment of a credible local aluminum pricing system, and opportunities for international cooperation.

The SMM delegation included:

• Logan Lu , CEO of SMM
• Cason Lou , Aluminum Processing Director of the Marketing Department
• Lexi Chen , Key Account Manager for Overseas Information Sales
• Khai Yuen Chin , Senior Overseas Aluminum Analyst.

They were welcomed by key representatives from VAA, including:

• Nguyen Minh Ke, President of Vietnam Aluminum Profile Association (VAA)
• Vu Van Phu, Vice President & Secretary General, VAA, Viet Phap Aluminum Company
• Le Anh Tuyet, Vice President, VAA; CEO Do Thanh Aluminum Group
• Nguyen Dung, Chief of Office, VAA

Strengthening Transparency in Vietnam’s Aluminum Market

During the meeting, SMM and VAA introduced their respective organizations, business activities, and roles within the aluminum industry. The discussion then focused on the development of Vietnam’s aluminum sector, market research and price publication, and potential cooperation surrounding SMM AICE 2026 Southeast Asia Aluminum Conference

A key topic was the need for a transparent and internationally recognized aluminum price benchmark in Vietnam.

Photo credit: SMM AICE

As Vietnam’s aluminum industry continues to expand, the absence of a credible local price reference remains a major challenge for market participants. A reliable benchmark could improve pricing transparency, support more informed commercial decisions, and facilitate cross-border trade.

To support this development, SMM officially launched its Vietnam 6063 aluminum billet processing fee and SMM Vietnam 6063 aluminum billet price assessment on July 3, 2026.

During the meeting, the SMM team explained the progress of its pricing services in Southeast Asia and addressed VAA’s questions regarding the assessment process. SMM also emphasized the importance of developing a Vietnam aluminum pricing system that reflects local market conditions while gaining recognition from international participants.

Official Price Launch at SMM AICE 2026

SMM plans to officially introduce its Vietnam aluminum price and explain the underlying methodology during SMM AICE 2026 Southeast Asia Aluminum Conference, taking place on November 19–20, 2026, in Ho Chi Minh City.

The conference will provide a platform for aluminum producers, processors, traders, industry associations, analysts, and other market participants to discuss pricing mechanisms and the broader development of Vietnam and Southeast Asia’s aluminum markets.

VAA Chairman Nguyen Minh Ke welcomed SMM’s continued engagement in Vietnam. He highlighted the rapid development of the country’s aluminum industry, particularly following the commissioning of the first phase of a 150,000-ton electrolytic aluminum project, which further strengthens Vietnam’s aluminum value chain.

Photo credit: SMM AICE

He also noted that the lack of a locally based pricing reference with international credibility has remained a persistent industry challenge. VAA looks forward to deepening its cooperation with SMM and jointly supporting the standardization and international recognition of Vietnam’s aluminum pricing system.

Expanding Cooperation Through SMM AICE 2026

SMM and VAA also reached several points of consensus regarding potential cooperation for SMM AICE 2026.

VAA expressed its intention to actively consider supporting and participating in the conference. This collaboration could create new opportunities for industry dialogue, information exchange, and stronger connections between Vietnam’s aluminum sector and the wider international market.

The visit marks the formal establishment of a cooperative relationship between SMM and VAA. It lays a foundation for future collaboration in aluminum price development, industry information exchange, and international engagement.

About the Vietnam Association of Aluminum Profile

Established in 2019, the Vietnam Association of Aluminum Profile is one of the country’s most influential aluminum industry organizations.

VAA represents nearly 130 member companies involved in aluminum profile manufacturing and trading. Its work focuses on supporting member companies, protecting their legitimate interests, promoting cooperation across the industry, and strengthening the international competitiveness of Vietnam’s aluminum sector.

According to VAA, Vietnam’s aluminum profile production reached nearly 1.5 million tonnes in 2024, with an estimated value of USD 4.2 billion, representing year-on-year growth of 14.5%.

As the industry continues to grow, cooperation among associations, market information providers, and businesses will become increasingly important in developing stronger market standards and supporting Vietnam’s integration into the global aluminum value chain.

Join the Conversation at SMM AICE 2026

Connect with aluminum producers, processors, traders, industry associations, analysts, and decision-makers from across Southeast Asia. Explore the latest market developments, pricing trends, processing technologies, recycling opportunities, and new possibilities for regional cooperation.

? Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

? November 19–20, 2026

Register now: bit.ly/AICE26 and secure your Super Early Bird Pass and save up to USD 200. Register before August 31, 2026.