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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On Wednesday, April 3, Lotte Aluminium Co., Korea’s biggest comprehensive packaging material company under Lotte Group, announced that it would split into two entities – Lotte Infracell and Lotte Packaging Solutions. The company believes that this move will enable them to focus on respective areas of expertise. While Lotte Infracell will focus on secondary battery materials, Lotte Packaging Solutions will look after the packaging business. Lotte Infracell will nurture its expertise in secondary battery materials, inheriting the aluminium foil business from Lotte Aluminium’s BM business division. Lotte Infracell aims to enhance the production and supply of high-quality battery-grade aluminium foil to tap the fast-growing EV battery market. On the other hand, Lotte Packaging Solutions will...
RHI Magnesita has announced its intention to acquire Resco Group, a leading manufacturer of alumina monolithics and refractories, to boost operational capabilities and enrich product offerings. This acquisition, with an enterprise value potentially reaching $430 million, signifies a significant milestone in the growth trajectory of both entities. The acquisition holds substantial benefits for both RHI Magnesita and Resco Group. For RHI Magnesita, it presents an opportunity to enhance local production capacities in the US and Canada, aligning closely with customer feedback and demand dynamics. By leveraging Resco's robust operational footprint and expertise in various industries, RHI Magnesita aims to strengthen its regional presence and fortify its commitment to local manufacturing...
Japan is one of those countries exhibiting a buoyant aluminium market for the fiscal year 2024, driven by potential demand due to the revival in the semiconductor and automobile sectors. According to the estimated data shared by the Aluminum Research Committee, Japan’s demand for aluminium products will most likely reach 3.85 million tonnes in FY 2024, marking an increase for the first time in three years. Only the demand for rolled aluminium products is projected to fall short of the 4 million tonnes target, remaining at 1.73 million tonnes through FY2024. The Committee, comprising seven industry organizations, estimates that Japan’s aluminium product demand will grow 2.1 per cent compared to the previous year, buoyed by projected automobile sales to grow by 3.7 per cent. Domestic demand...
Undergraduate students from Purdue University's PSP-AC team recently partnered with Elementum 3D for their groundbreaking TADPOLE propulsion system. Elementum 3D printed the aluminium combustion chamber, cooling circuit, and nozzle as a single integrated component through laser powder bed fusion. The students are harnessing additive manufacturing (AM) to push the boundaries of vertical take-off and vertical landing (VTVL) technology with support from Elementum 3D. Their ongoing project aligns with the goals of the Collegiate Propulsive Lander Challenge (CPLC), where student teams are tasked with designing self-landing rockets. From this challenge emerged PSP-AC's innovative TADPOLE propulsion system. "We are honored to offer our team's AM knowledge, expertise, and technology to inspire...
Aluminium, often praised as the unheralded champion of contemporary materials, is crucial in forging a sustainable world. Its lightweight yet resilient qualities render it indispensable across various industries—from aerospace to automotive, construction to electronics. But beyond its versatility, aluminium's environmental merits genuinely come to the forefront. Companies worldwide are moving towards aluminium. Be it transportation, packaging, or even the downstream sector, the use of aluminium has shown incredible growth. In the hands of architects, aluminium emerges as a metal of boundless creativity, enabling the design of structures previously unattainable with wood, plastic, or steel. The global drive to reduce carbon footprints has cemented aluminium's status as a favoured metal in...
In a strategic move to bolster its domestic aluminium industry, the Indian government is contemplating a surge in anti-dumping duties on aluminium foil imported from Thailand. This decision could significantly impact the market dynamics, benefiting prominent players like Hindalco Industries Limited. Let's delve deeper into how this development may shape the landscape of the aluminium sector in India. The news of a potential anti-dumping duty hike sparked optimism among investors, as Hindalco's stock surged by 2.50 per cent in morning trades on the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE). With a focus on protecting domestic manufacturers, such measures could propel Hindalco's growth trajectory. DGTR, or the Directorate General of Trade Remedies, has launched a mid-term review, assessing the...
In the integrated tinsel town of global economics, Mexico has emerged as a shimmering thread, weaving its way to prominence on the world stage. With a meteoric rise in recent years, Mexico now stands tall as the 12th largest economy globally, a testament to its resilience and dynamism. At the heart of Mexico's economic surge lies its robust automotive sector, a veritable engine of growth propelling the nation forward. Boasting a staggering 9.2 per cent increase, Mexico churned out 3.5 million cars in 2022, cementing its position as the world's seventh-largest automotive producer. This stellar achievement owes much to the unwavering commitment of the international automotive industry, which continues to funnel investments into Mexico's burgeoning market. Aluminium foundry renaissance in...
The global aluminium downstream sector witnessed a lot of significant incidents this week. To begin with, India recently launched an anti-dumping probe into the import of aluminium foil from China, aiming to protect its domestic aluminium industry. This decision follows complaints lodged by major domestic players like Hindalco Industries, Shyam Sel & Power Ltd, and others, accusing Chinese exporters of dumping practices. Golden Aluminum was chosen by the U.S. Department of Energy's Office of Clean Energy Demonstrations on March 25th to enter into negotiations for potential funding of up to $22.3 million. Jinfei Kaida Wheel's stock saw a notable rise after the Chinese manufacturer announced its third capacity expansion plan. The company disclosed its plan to invest CNY557 million (USD77...
According to China customs data, the total exports of aluminium wire and cables during January-February 2024 amounted to 37,500 tonnes at a value of $114.87 million. The export volume in January was 22,500 tonnes, up by 32.58 per cent month-on-month and 48.61 per cent year-on-year. The export volume in January recovered and stood at its peak in the past three years, but it failed to break through a three-year high. Subsequently, the export volume decreased in February as downstream companies went on holiday for the Chinese New Year. China’s aluminium wire and cables export in February was 15,000 tonnes, down by 33 per cent month-on-month. However, on an annual basis, the export volume in February stood 26.52 per cent higher. The export value in January was $68.67 million, which recorded a...
Aluminium is a crucial metal in the aerospace manufacturing industry, and recent events involving such aluminium parts have stirred ripples of concern and curiosity. At the heart of the narrative lies a saga involving two titans of the industry: Boeing, a household name synonymous with flight, and Spirit AeroSystems Holdings Inc, a cornerstone of aerostructures innovation. As the story unfolds, it unveils a series of developments that beg contemplation and scrutiny. March 25 marked a pivotal moment for Boeing, as CEO Dave Calhoun announced his impending departure amidst regulatory scrutiny and airline apprehension. The catalyst? A harrowing incident in January, where a panel dislodged from a 737 MAX 9 jet, reignited concerns and prompted a reassessment of leadership at the helm of the...
In a world where industries continually evolve, staying ahead of the curve is paramount. AL Circle is excited to announce its latest and highly anticipated report, "The World of Aluminium Extrusions - Industry Forecast to 2030." This comprehensive report delves deeper into the dynamics shaping the aluminium extrusion sector, offering invaluable insights for stakeholders across the globe. The report meticulously examines key trends, challenges, and opportunities that define the landscape of aluminium extrusions. From technological advancements to market dynamics, this report leaves no stone unturned in its quest to provide a holistic view of the industry's trajectory. One of the report's standout features is its forward-looking approach. By forecasting industry trends up to 2030, AL Circle...
Shares of Jinfei Kaida Wheel surged following the Chinese manufacturer's announcement regarding its third capacity expansion plan this year. Jinfei Kaida revealed its intention to invest CNY557 million (USD77 million) in constructing a new plant in Thailand's Thai-Chinese Rayong Industrial Zone. About the new plant This facility will focus on producing two million aluminium alloy wheel hubs annually, specifically for new energy vehicles. The Jinhua-based company shared that the plant's construction is expected to be completed within two years. According to the firm's announcement, the new plant is projected to generate annual sales revenue of CNY578 million and an estimated profit of around CNY95.6 million (USD13.2 million) upon reaching its designed capacity. The new plant is expected to...
N.A. Holding Corp., a diversified holding company owned by Matt Wojewuczki and Doyle McCauley, has recently acquired Architectural Glass and Aluminum (AGA), a premier aluminium and glass fabricator in Columbia City. "NA Holding Corp. is dedicated to ensuring a smooth transition for AGA into its portfolio of companies. With this acquisition, NA Holding looks forward to supporting AGA's continued success and contributing to its growth in the years ahead," said the announcement. Situated at 1050 S. Williams Drive, AGA is renowned for its extensive offerings, which include curtain walls, storefronts, windows, skylights, composite panels, point-supported glass systems, railings, and architectural sunscreens. The company's headquarters and 10,000-square-foot fabrication and stock warehouse are...
Technocraft Formwork, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Technocraft Industries (India), has recently started producing aluminium fabrication at its newly established scaffolding unit in Aurangabad, Maharashtra, India. The new unit, which has a capacity of 600,000 square meters for aluminium fabrication, will begin its production in phases from Wednesday, as per the filing made to the BSE on Tuesday. The company’s proprietary MACH ONE, a lightweight, high-quality aluminum monolithic formwork system, is one of Technocraft's key offerings and is widely used in India's construction sector. The formwork has been designed using top-quality aluminium extrusions engineered to withstand heavy construction loads. It is particularly suitable for the residential and mass housing projects that are common...
China-based Xinjiang Zhonghe recently released its 2023 financial report. In its 2023 performance report, Xinjiang Zhonghe disclosed that it attained an operating income of RMB 6.535 billion, marking a 15.52 per cent decrease compared to the previous year. The net profit attributable to shareholders of the parent company reached RMB 1.561 billion, showcasing a 0.88 per cent year-on-year increase. The net cash flow from operating activities also stood at RMB 619 million, reflecting a 42.28 per cent decrease compared to the corresponding period last year. Factors influencing the shift Several factors primarily influenced the shift in operating income. Firstly, the period saw a sluggish growth in market demand, particularly with a decline in the demand for certain consumer electronic...
AMAG Austria Metall AG in Ranshofen, Austria, has reportedly invested 50 million euros in a state-of-the-art surface treatment line to strengthen its position as a leading manufacturer of high-quality aluminium surfaces. The plant is equipped with cutting-edge technologies to optimise production capacity, efficiency and quality, in view of the growing demand for top-grade and precision-processed aluminium rolled products. Aluminium surfaces are essential for bonding, welding, soldering , varnishing, and forming parts. Thus, the quality of surfaces matters a lot for further processing and coating options. The usage of aluminium surfaces is widely spread in the architectural sector, decorative surfaces in consumer electronics, the cosmetic industry, radiators and heat exchangers, and the...
In the vast realm of aluminium production, where innovation and sustainability intertwine, Assan Alüminyum emerges as a beacon of excellence. Renowned as one of the premier flat-rolled aluminium producers globally, this stalwart of the industry stands tall not only for its remarkable products but also for its unwavering commitment to corporate social responsibility (CSR). Embracing sustainability as its guiding principle, Assan Alüminyum wishes to transcend conventional business paradigms. Within the intricate tapestry of its operations, the company meticulously weaves threads of environmental consciousness and societal welfare. The Sea Daffodils: A testament to sustainable stewardship At the heart of Assan Alüminyum's CSR narrative lies the illustrious Sea Daffodils project , a triumph...
According to the US Census Bureau data, the United States’ aluminium plates, sheets and bars exports in 2023 experienced an annual growth of 5.57 per cent, primarily driven by Canada and Mexico, the two highest importers. As per the USGS survey, the United States aluminium plates, sheets and bars exports in 2023 totalled 770,000 tonnes compared to 736,000 tonnes in 2022. Canada accounted for 44.42 per cent of the United States total exports, while Mexico accounted for 38.31 per cent. Despite the annual growth, the exports during the last three months of 2023 saw a sequential fall. In October, the exports decreased by 6.78 per cent M-o-M from 66,400 tonnes to 61,900 tonnes, which further declined in November by 5.33 per cent to 58,600 tonnes and by 6.83 per cent to 54,600 tonnes in...
