May prebaked anode exports softened; divergent regional demand to lift full-year shipments slightly【SMM Analysis】
Export volumes in May pulled back temporarily due to the procurement pace in Southeast Asia and weaker demand in the Middle East, but the offsetting effect of the new capacity in Southeast Asia cannot be overlooked. The probability of a near-term recovery in the Middle East and Russian markets is low, and exports are likely to remain at low levels. Overall, cumulative exports for the full year are still expected to maintain slight positive growth.