China’s aluminium exports jump 15% in April amid Gulf turmoil, but can it replace GCC supply?

Stock image for referential purposes only

As tensions in the Middle East continue to disrupt one of the world’s most critical trade corridors, global aluminium buyers are turning towards China in search of supply stability. But while China’s exports are accelerating rapidly, the bigger question remains - can the country truly offset the growing supply risks emerging from the Gulf region?

The changing trade pattern is becoming increasingly evident across major markets including India, Mexico, United States, Vietnam and South Korea, where importers are ramping up purchases from China amid concerns over freight uncertainty, tighter supply availability and potential disruptions to Gulf-linked shipments.

China shipments jump amid Gulf uncertainty

China’s exports of unwrought aluminium and aluminium products climbed sharply in April 2026, reaching 598,000 tonnes, according to SMM. The figure was 15.4 per cent higher than the 518,000 tonnes exported in April last year and marked the country’s strongest monthly export performance since December 2024, when shipments stood at 506,000 tonnes.