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...
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The Aluminium Federation (ALFED) is thrilled to announce the launch of the inaugural Young Apprentice of the Year Award, set to take place at the prestigious ALFED Annual Dinner on Thursday, 28th November 2024, at the De Vere Beaumont Estate in Windsor. This exciting event aims to celebrate the outstanding achievements of young apprentices within the aluminium industry and highlight the importance of nurturing talent in our sector. As the rate of change in our world accelerates and technology continues to shape our future, young people are poised to play a crucial role in driving innovation and progress. ALFED recognises the importance of supporting and empowering the next generation of professionals in the aluminium industry. With this in mind, we are launching the prestigious Young...
The European Commission has released a revised report on state-led distortions within the Chinese economy, expanding its scope to include additional sectors. This move may allow EU chip and clean-tech producers to file anti-dumping complaints. Published on March 10, 2024, the updated report is 712 pages long and provides intricate insights into what the EU executive identifies as distortions across the telecom equipment, semiconductor, rail, renewable energy, and electric vehicle industries. The aluminium, steel, chemicals, and ceramics sectors remain unchanged from the initial 2017 report. There isn't a comparable EU report for any other nation. The report serves as a resource for EU industries to lodge complaints regarding dumping practices. Should it be determined that prices and costs...
Mingdao Aluminum Industry and Yinlun Shares have recently solidified their collaboration through a strategic cooperation agreement. This partnership aims to leverage their combined strengths in various sectors, including heat transfer materials, e-commerce, logistics, and aluminium for construction, fostering integrated development and mutual growth opportunities. On April 2, a significant milestone was reached as Mingdao Aluminum Industry and Yinlun Shares formalised their strategic cooperation agreement. The signing ceremony, attended by key figures such as Xu Xiaomin, Chairman of Yinlun Group, and Liu Yudong, President of Geely Technology Group, emphasised the shared commitment to realising deep industrial integration across the aluminium materials sector. Shared vision for integrated...
Elon Musk, Tesla's phenomenal chief, is set to embark on a significant journey to India. During the week of April 22, he will engage in crucial discussions with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi. Sources privy to the matter indicate that Musk's visit is poised to unveil plans for Tesla's potential investment and the establishment of a new manufacturing facility in the country. Although details remain confidential, anticipation mounts as this visit coincides with India's upcoming elections, highlighting the potential economic implications of Musk's strategic endeavours. What does this mean for the Indian sub-continent? The prospective announcement of Tesla's investment during this politically charged period could reinforce the Government's pro-business image as India seeks to...
PyroGenesis Canada Inc., a leading high-tech firm specialising in designing, developing, and commercialising advanced plasma processes and sustainable solutions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, is excited to reveal the signing of a collaboration agreement (the "LOI") with Constellium. Constellium is one of the world's largest aluminium transformation and recycling companies. Together, the two entities will focus on developing cutting-edge plasma torches and associated processes designed as efficient heating sources for aluminium remelting furnaces. How does a plasma torch operate A plasma torch generates an intense electric arc that ionises the gas, forming superheated plasma. This plasma, characterised by temperatures exceeding those of traditional methods, promises a faster, more...
According to the US Census Bureau survey, the United States aluminium plates, sheets and bars imports in January 2024 jumped close to the previous year’s level, reaching 98,400 tonnes. Last year, the United States aluminium plates, sheets and bars imports were 99,400 tonnes. However, from February 2023, the United States imports started dwindling, standing at 72,900 tonnes in the said month. Intermittently, the import volume grew but stood the lowest in April at 66,500 tonnes. On a month-on-month calculation, the United States aluminium plates, sheets and bars imports in January 2024 edged an increase of 12,500 tonnes or 14.55 per cent from 85,900 tonnes. Canada, China, and South Korea were the top three exporters of aluminium plates, sheets and bars to the United States. Canada exported...
SECO/WARWICK is gearing up introducing its CAB line production in India. The recipient of this solution is an Indian company specialising in manufacturing heat exchangers, Narain Cooling Technologies. This furnace implementation will enable Narain Cooling Technologies to uphold optimal production efficiency while adhering to rigorous energy consumption standards. Narain Cooling Technologies has invested significantly in the first CAB line ordered from SECO/WARWICK. This furnace features a 1300 mm wide conveyor belt and is tailored for producing medium-sized heat exchangers. Notably, the entire manufacturing process occurred in SECO/WARWICK's new factory in India, marking a milestone for the company's local production capabilities.” Narain Cooling Technologies (P) Ltd. is an ISO 9001:2015...
ANB Metal Cast Pvt. Ltd. is a pioneering force in the foundry industry, specialising in fabricating top-tier aluminium extrusion components. Founded in 2019 by the visionary entrepreneur Mr Avnish Gajera, the company swiftly ascended to become a trusted and esteemed entity in the realm of aluminium extrusions. The company has been successfully onboarded by AL Biz to its list of 2000+ sellers. About ANB Metal As an esteemed holder of ISO 9001:2015 and ISO 14001 certifications, ANB Metal Cast Pvt. Ltd. upholds itself to excellence and environmental stewardship standards. Drawing from over five years of industry expertise, the company has solidified its position as a premier manufacturer of superior aluminium extrusion profiles. Their core operations centre on producing cast parts for...
Sandvik has inked a deal to acquire Almü Präzisions-Werkzeug GmbH (Almü), a renowned cutting tool and solution provider for aluminium machining in Germany. This acquisition highlights Sandvik's commitment to catering to the increasing demand for lightweight aluminium components, particularly in the automotive sector, as the transition towards electric vehicles continues. The acquisition of Almü is a testament to Sandvik's dedication to enhancing its position in lightweight materials. With a focus on high-precision drilling, reaming, milling, and tooling systems, Almü aligns perfectly with Sandvik's vision to offer innovative solutions for lightweight components, especially in the automotive industry. Solidifying market presence Almü boasts a robust market position within the DACH region...
Porsche and Alumobility are at the forefront of a constructive initiative poised to redefine automotive engineering. Their collaborative effort aims to revolutionise vehicle design by replacing traditional steel-intensive structures with lightweight aluminium alternatives. This strategic shift not only propagates a commitment to innovation but also highlights the pivotal role of aluminium in shaping the future of transportation. In a joint endeavour, Porsche and Alumobility introduce a paradigm shift in automotive construction with the unveiling of their latest study. By transitioning from a steel-based framework to an aluminium-centric design, the partners seek to capitalise on the inherent advantages of aluminium, notably its unparalleled strength-to-weight ratio and corrosion...
As a well-acknowledged manufacturer of aluminium extrusion and façade systems, Architectural and Metal Systems (AMS) stands as a testimony to innovation and progress. Nestled in the picturesque landscapes of Cork, Ireland, AMS has been diligently pioneering advancements within the industry. Recently, AMS embarked on a transformative journey, integrating cutting-edge machine monitoring technology from FourJaw Manufacturing Analytics into its operations, heralding a new era of efficiency and sustainability. With a keen eye on enhancing production visibility and streamlining operational processes, AMS embraced FourJaw's plug-and-play machine monitoring system in December 2023. This strategic move aimed to not only gauge machine utilisation but also support the implementation of shift-based...
Generational Group, a prominent advisor specialising in mergers and acquisitions for privately held enterprises, has announced the successful sale of Team Pride Extrusions (TPE) to Republic Strategic Investments (RSI). The deal was finalised on March 15, 2024. Based in Megargel, Texas, Team Pride Extrusions offers comprehensive manufacturing services in tailor-made aluminium extrusions. Their expertise spans aluminium extrusions, powder coating, CNC machining, punching, and various specialised fabrication and finishing techniques. Their product range encompasses everything from mill-finished extrusions to fully assembled extrusion components, complete with fabrication and finishing touches. TPE possesses the capability to handle various aluminium extrusions, including small, complex, and...
Craftsman Automation, an Indian company specialised in diversified casting solution of highly complex lightweight aluminium components for the automotive & industrial engineering sectors, has reportedly signed an agreement with Rajasthan State Industrial Development and Investment Corporation (RIICO) to set up a plant in Alwar city of Rajasthan. The news came on Monday, April 8, after they announced about the signing of project agreement. As per the report, the initial investment for the plant would be INR 150 crore. The South India-based company will invest this amount for developing the first phase of the project, which will come up in Salarpur industrial area of Bhiwadi, Rajasthan. This location is extremely strategic for its proximity to major cities like Delhi and Gurgaon. The...
Advance Joinery Group, one of the leading suppliers and installers of aluminium, timber and uPVC products, have recently announced the acquisition of Malvern Glass. Headquartered in Pontrilas, Advance Joinery Group has broadened its offerings to encompass uPVC and aluminium, alongside its esteemed bespoke timber range. The recent acquisition of Malvern Glass, established in 1979, marks a significant stride in Advance's local expansion efforts, signifying a pivotal milestone in its growth trajectory. The Malvern Glass team is set to continue with its existing members while welcoming some new additions. The overarching goal is to enhance its outstanding reputation by introducing a complementary trade counter. This counter will offer products not only to tradespeople but also to the general...
According to the Shanghai Metals Market survey the average operating rate of major aluminium processing enterprises decreased by 0.5 percentage point week-on-week to 64 per cent in the last week, from April 1 to April 5. The secondary aluminium alloy sector primarily contributed to the fall, while the other sectors remained stable. Many downstream companies reduced their product processing fees to attract new orders and seize market share, but the actual demand was limited. In the short term, leading companies may maintain a high operating rate by exchanging price for volume, but profitability will most likely remain low. The average operating rate of downstream sectors is also stable for now, notwithstanding the aluminium price surge through the week and a slight tremble in the...
In the realm of downstream aluminium, recent developments herald both challenges and opportunities across global markets. From India's deliberation over anti-dumping duties on Thai aluminium foil imports, stirring optimism for local producers like Hindalco Industries, to Japan's anticipated surge in aluminium demand buoyed by the semiconductor and automotive sectors' resurgence, the industry's landscape is dynamic and promising. Moreover, BMW's adoption of Wire-Arc Additive Manufacturing underscores a commitment to sustainable innovation, while Lotte Aluminium's strategic split aims to sharpen focus on specialised segments. Additionally, RHI Magnesita's acquisition of Resco Group signals strategic synergy poised to redefine refractory production dynamics. These developments reflect a...
Bonnell Aluminum, an esteemed subsidiary of Tredegar Corporation, is making waves once again as it announces the expansion of its TSLOTS line into the Southeastern United States. This strategic move aims to cater more efficiently to the region's burgeoning demand for versatile aluminium structural framing systems. Established as a premier manufacturer of custom-fabricated aluminium extrusions, Bonnell Aluminum has garnered acclaim across diverse sectors, from construction to automotive industries. Expansion into the Southeast With the addition of the Newnan, Georgia facility, Bonnell Aluminum reinforces its commitment to meeting the evolving needs of its clientele. By strategically positioning manufacturing and distribution hubs closer to customers, the company aims to streamline...
In the pursuit of innovation, BMW Group's Additive Manufacturing Campus in Oberschleißheim, Germany, spearheads a transformative journey utilising Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM) technology. This superlative approach employs Directed Energy Deposition (DED), leveraging aluminium to craft vehicle components and tools with unparalleled efficiency and sustainability. WAAM process at play At the heart of BMW's technological leap lies the utilisation of WAAM, a wire-based DED process. Unlike traditional die-cast methods, WAAM facilitates the creation of components that are not only lighter but also remarkably robust. Through precise control and meticulous craftsmanship, BMW achieves parts with superior strength-to-weight ratios, heralding a new era in automotive engineering....
