2009 September Al Imports Data Analysis

SHANGHAI, Oct. 23 (SMM) --
Bauxite:
According to China Customs, China's bauxite imports were 2.69 million mt during September, up more than 1 million mt from August levels, and up 67.8% MoM, the third highest month after 2.8 million mt in March 2008 and 2.77 million mt in September 2008.  Enterprises in Shandong province using imported bauxite as raw material have been restarting production  since late September, and two large alumina producers in the province have been operating at near full capacity, pushing up bauxite imports significantly.  Nanshan Group will also put its new 400kt/yr capacity plant into operation, which will also raise demand for imported bauxite. In this context, CBI believes bauxite imports during 4Q will be much higher than previous quarterly averages in 2009.
Alumina:
China's alumina imports grew to 469.1kt during September, and this increase is in line with CBI's previous prediction that total alumina imports will reach 5 million mt for 2009. Meanwhile, continuous increases in demand for alumina in China will also help raise global alumina prices. 
Aluminum:
According to the China Customs, China's aluminum imports were 117kt during September, flat at August levels.  Aluminum imports are expected to remain at current levels during October.

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