Japan imported 1.36 million tonnes of downstream aluminium products in January–August 2026, down 6.2 per cent from 1.45 million tonnes in the same period of 2025. The latest figures show lower overall imports, with shipments from the UAE seeing the biggest decline among the five leading exporters listed, while imports from Australia also fell. Japan’s total imports decline Japan’s downstream aluminium imports stood at 1.36 million tonnes through August 2026, a drop of around 90,000 tonnes, compared to shipments in 2025 during the same period. However, annual imports remained broadly stable over the previous three years, rising from 2.11 million tonnes in 2023 to 2.12 million tonnes in 2024, an increase of 0.3 per cent. In 2025, imports edged up by a further 0.1 per cent to 2.12 million...
Alumil India, the fully-owned Indian subsidiary of Alumil Group, has successfully delivered advanced fenestration solutions for NICMAR University in Pune, transforming a precast campus vision into a functional, durable and future facing learning environment. The project required approximately three hundred windows within a tight timeline which was successfully delivered by Alumil India. The project deployed Alumil’s top-hung window systems combined with sleek mullions and glazing. “NICMAR University presented an opportunity to demonstrate how fenestration can become an integral part of both a building’s architecture and its performance. The project required us to respond to large openings, intensive daily usage, acoustic and weather considerations, safety, and the specific challenges of...
Grow with
AL Circle
In a significant move to solidify its position in Asia's burgeoning electrification market, a global leader in aluminium rolling and recycling in selected niches, Gränges has announced extending its long-term strategic partnership with Shandong Innovation Group (SIG). This collaboration aims to enhance Gränges' competitiveness and expand its market share in the region, which is rapidly becoming the global leader in electric vehicle and electrification applications. Gränges has witnessed robust growth in demand for its high-quality, sustainable electrification solutions across Asia. The company's portfolio includes advanced battery casings, battery foil, cooling plates, and other essential components for electric vehicles. The extended partnership with SIG is expected to leverage this...
In a move towards zero emissions, Hydro Extrusion in Sweden has commenced on-site renewable energy production. The ultimate goal is fully transitioning to 100 per cent locally produced renewable energy for operating Hydro's extrusion plants in Vetlanda and Finspång. The main aim is to extrude aluminium using 100 per cent locally produced renewable energy. With Hydro Rein (Hydro's renewable energy company) recently completing phase one, rooftop, ground-mounted solar panels and battery storage systems have begun significantly contributing to this ambitious goal. These efforts supplement an existing local hydropower plant. Technical solution includes The technical solution, a testament to our commitment to innovation and sustainability, includes seven rooftop installations with a total...
Welsh fabricator Dudley’s Aluminium has begun a prestigious project to construct a state-of-the-art joint education campus in Fairwater. Collaborating with ISG Construction Ltd., Dudley’s will bring to life three newly build schools—Cantonian High School, Riverbank School, and Woodlands High School—on a singular site, embracing sustainability and innovative aluminium fabrications. The Fairwater campus, a multimillion-pound endeavour, is poised to set a benchmark for future educational projects in Cardiff. This development aligns with the Welsh Government’s Net Zero Carbon standards, ensuring each of the three schools will be energy-efficient and powered by renewable energy sources. Dudley’s Aluminium will install Metal Technology System doors, windows, and capped curtain walling,...
JSW Steel has introduced an innovative product named Magsure, a zinc-magnesium-aluminium alloy-coated steel. This specialised steel is designed for use in highly corrosive environments. It is ideal for various applications, including steel structures in solar installations, silos, guard rails, and air conditioning parts, where enhanced corrosion protection is essential. The first only Indian company JSW Steel, a leading steel manufacturer in India and part of the USD 24 billion JSW Group, announced in a press release that it is the first Indian company to produce and market a zinc-magnesium-aluminium alloy-coated steel product domestically. The company has also patented Magsure's unique chemical composition. "We are optimising our coated products mix to service the nation's requirements...
Novelis Inc., an American industrial aluminium company and an independent subsidiary of Hindalco Industries Limited, reportedly aims to raise $945 million in a US IPO by selling 45 million shares for $18-21 each. This IPO may even generate $1.08 billion of capital for Novelis if the green shoe option is exercised. This IPO listing is part of Hindalco's broader strategy to unlock value and raise capital through all its global subsidiaries. After the initial public offering, Hindalco will reduce its stake in Novelis by 7.5 per cent and retain almost 92.5 per cent of the ownership. Novelis stated: "Hindalco will control approximately 92.5 per cent of the voting power of our outstanding share capital following the offering, assuming no exercise of the underwriters' option to purchase...
Rico Auto Industries, a distinguished Gurugram-based supplier of machined components and assemblies, specialising in aluminium and ferrous materials, is making strategic moves to bolster its future growth. Recently, the company secured a leasehold of 12.31 acres at the SIPCOT Industrial Park in Shoolagiri, Hosur. This acquisition is poised to support its expansion plans, particularly focusing on automotive manufacturers in southern India. Despite facing financial setbacks in FY24, Rico Auto Industries is poised for a robust recovery with promising projections for FY25. Rico Auto Industries’ latest move to acquire land in Hosur is a testament to its forward-thinking strategy aimed at scaling operations and better serving its clientele in southern India. The SIPCOT Industrial Park, renowned...
Austria's IMR Metal Powder Technologies and US-based KBM Advanced Materials have joined forces to sell and distribute IMR's aluminium metal powders for additive manufacturing (AM). Through KBM's unique metal powder marketplace and extensive distribution network in North America (NA), IMR's high-quality aluminium metal powders will now be more accessible to users, enhancing their access to premium powder products. Thomas Rimmer, IMR CEO, said, "By offering our Aluminum alloy powders on the platform of KBM our US customers have now access to their products on short-term notice which supports their inventory management optimization as well as fast response to new business opportunities in a still evolving and sometimes difficult to predict market environment. The availability of IMR's...
Aluminium is crucial in various industries, including mobility and transportation, construction and buildings, packaging, aerospace, and defence. It is integral to nearly all energy generation, transmission, and storage technology facets. Sandvik Coromant, a global leader in metal cutting tools and tooling solutions, is hosting a virtual event tailored for manufacturers in the aerospace, automotive, defence, space, and general engineering sectors. The event titled, ' Navigating the Artistry of Aluminum Machining,' will be broadcasted live on Thursday, June 27, 2024. It will focus on tangible solutions to streamline the aluminium machining process, empowering manufacturers to meet these demands effectively. With mounting environmental regulations and consumer preferences leaning towards...
In the rapidly evolving automotive industry, securing robust and reliable supply chains has become paramount, especially amidst rising geopolitical tensions. Tesla, the pioneer in electric vehicle (EV) innovation, is proactively addressing these concerns by reshaping its supply chain strategies. As the maker of the acclaimed Model Y electric crossover, Tesla is ensuring the continuity of its supply chain even as geopolitical tensions between China, Taiwan, and the United States intensify. According to a recent report by Nikkei Asia, Tesla has urged several suppliers to commence building components outside of China and Taiwan as early as next year. These components, including displays, electronic control units, and printed circuit boards, are vital for Tesla EVs marketed outside of China....
In a bold move to protect domestic industries, the United States recently imposed substantial tariffs on a wide range of imports from China. This decisive action has sent ripples through the global trade landscape, prompting other nations to consider similar protective measures. CareEdge Ratings, a credit rating agency, has weighed in on the potential consequences of this policy shift. The agency believes there may be a growing likelihood that other countries may adopt high tariffs on imports as a strategy to shield their economies. If this trend gains traction, it could significantly alter international trade dynamics and reshape economic relationships worldwide. The US decision to raise tariffs is rooted in a broader strategy to address trade imbalances and bolster domestic...
On May 23, 2024, the technology leader in electrification and automation, ABB, announced key leadership changes effective August 1, 2024. Giampiero Frisio has been appointed the new President of the Electrification Business Area, while Brandon Spencer will assume the President of the Motion Business Area. Both Frisio and Spencer will join ABB’s Executive Committee, bringing their extensive experience and fresh perspectives to the global technology leader’s top management team. Björn Rosengren, the CEO of ABB, said, “Both Giampiero and Brandon are proven leaders with strong track records in their current roles, driving profitable growth in two of our largest Divisions. I am particularly happy that we are appointing internal candidates – this shows the strength of ABB’s pool of senior...
Wheels India has earmarked a capital budget of INR 200 crore for the current financial year. This significant investment is aimed at enhancing their offload tractor, fabrication, and machining capacity for cast aluminium sections used in windmill castings. This move highlights Wheels India's commitment to advancing its manufacturing capabilities and staying competitive in the aluminium industry. As a prominent manufacturer of steel and aluminium wheels for trucks, agricultural tractors, passenger vehicles, and construction machinery, Wheels India projects a positive outlook for FY25. The company's strategic investments are expected to drive growth and improve operational efficiencies, aligning with the global shift towards sustainable manufacturing practices. In FY24, Wheels India...
According to official figures released by the National Institute of Statistics, Cameroon in Africa exported 3,011 tonnes of aluminium sheets in 2023 and collected CFA6.6 billion. On a year-on-year calculation, the export volume from Cameroon surged by 90.8 per cent from 1,578 tonnes, resulting in an increase in revenues by 80.2 per cent annually from CFA3.6 billion. This jump in exports and revenues is expected to rejuvenate the aluminium industry in Central Africa and likely to strengthen the financial position of the Cameroon Aluminium Company (Alucam), the primary producer and exporter of aluminium sheets in Cameroon. The company produces flat sheets, corrugated sheets, and trays sheets. Alucam has been facing challenges since 2014 when the Canadian firm Rio Tinto withdrew its...
On May 14, 2024, in line with Guizhou Gui Aluminium New Materials’ safety production standardisation establishment arrangement, a team of five evaluators from the Qingzhen Emergency Management Bureau conducted an on-site assessment. Following a thorough review, Guizhou Gui Aluminium New Materials successfully passed the evaluation and acceptance process. About the evaluation This achievement makes Guizhou Gui Aluminium New Materials Co., LTD. the first enterprise in Qingzhen's aluminium rolling processing industry to accept safety production standardisation. The evaluation focused on the company's efforts to achieve three-level safety production standardisation. The review team evaluated 13 aspects, including laws and regulations, safety systems, production equipment and facilities, and...
According to a recent report, Dr Hyeon-woo Son and his research team from the Department of Aluminum in the Advanced Metals Division at KIMS have unveiled an aluminium alloy specially made to improve the thermal stability of electric vehicles. They adopted a new mechanism for the alloy production by which the nanostructures inside aluminium alloys work and proved to have improved thermal stability by up to 140 per cent. The alloy also contains trace elements that delay the thermal deterioration of enclosure materials caused by heat generation from the battery, leading to a high risk of accidents as electric vehicles age. Dr Hyeon-woo Son and his team started by establishing a database with dozens of trace elements and analysing nanostructures through state-of-the-art techniques such as...
The state of Washington has allocated nearly $5 million to the Kaiser Aluminum plant in Spokane Valley to aid in replacing two outdated steam boilers. This initiative, under the Climate Commitment Act, aims to substantially reduce the plant's greenhouse gas emissions, marking a noteworthy step in the state's environmental efforts. Kaiser Aluminum, headquartered in Franklin, Tennessee, with operations spanning 15 industrial facilities across the United States, is set to replace its 1943-built steam boilers. The replacement project, costing approximately $4.8 million each , will be equally funded by the state and Kaiser . This investment is part of the broader Climate Commitment Act, introduced in 2021 by Governor Jay Inslee. The act, funded by a carbon credit auction that raised $1.5...
On May 11th, a significant development took place as the China Securities Regulatory Commission (CSRC) granted approval for Ningbo Xusheng Group Co., Ltd.'s registration of convertible bonds with an undisclosed issuer. This endorsement by the CSRC paves the way for Xusheng Group's convertible bonds to be listed on the main board of the Shanghai Stock Exchange, a testament to the company's financial stability and potential for growth. It is reported that the Xusheng Group plans to issue convertible bonds totalling at most RMB 2,800,000,000. After deducting issuance expenses, the funds will be allocated to various projects, including: new energy vehicle powertrain projects, key parts projects for lightweight vehicles, green manufacturing projects for lightweight structural parts of...
The 3003 aluminium plate, a standout rust-proof material, finds widespread use in diverse applications. Its strength, though not exceptional (marginally higher than industrial pure aluminium), is not amenable to enhancement through heat treatment. Instead, its mechanical properties are elevated through the use of cold working techniques. The 3003 alloy exhibits remarkable plasticity when annealed, good plasticity when semi-cold worked, and low plasticity when cold worked, making it a versatile material. Additionally, it offers excellent corrosion resistance and weldability. It can be used in multiple products like blinds, lamp caps, ultra-wide curtain walls, and power battery casings. Also, aluminium as a metal is increasingly recyclable and is becoming an essential component of the...
