Europe holds 10% of global aluminium extrusion demand, supported by Germany’s Constellium, France’s Hydro Extrusions & Italy’s Metra
Across Europe, aluminium extrusion has become closely woven into some of the region’s biggest industrial and construction markets. From automotive and transport to buildings and industrial applications, extruded profiles are finding demand across a wide range of sectors. This is reflected in Europe’s position in the global market: the region accounted for 12 per cent of global aluminium extrusion capacity, making it the second-largest regional contributor after China. At the same time, Europe represented 10 per cent of global aluminium extrusion usage, out of total global usage of 35.35 million tonnes . With production capacity and usage shares relatively close, Europe’s extrusion capacity and consumption are broadly at par. If we break down Europe’s 10 per cent share of global aluminium...
H1 2026 sees more renewable energy than ever: Here’s a region-by-region guide to renewable energy supply in the recent past
In the first half of 2025, humanity generated more electricity from renewables than from coal for the first time ever. What led to it? It was possible only because of two decades of falling solar panel prices, taller wind turbines, and governments finally treating clean power like an economic opportunity instead of a favour to the planet. But the renewable energy scenario cannot be portrayed as a single global story. To get the full picture, one has to connect dozens of regional stories moving at wildly different speeds. Some countries are already powered almost entirely by sun, wind and water. Others are still warming up. Here is a tour of how renewable energy supply looks across the world’s regions right now, and who is actually leading the charge. The global scorecard: Renewable energy...
Grow with
AL Circle
Aluminium is far easier to recycle than plastic, so it was a no-brainer that we should use it instead of bottles: Josh White, Co-founder and CEO of Cano Water
Josh White is the Co-Founder and CEO of Cano Water, the world's first canned water brand, founded in 2015. Josh has spoken extensively about his battles with ADHD and feeling different while growing up - and prides himself on embodying the brand's "Don't Bottle It" attitude. He is passionate about helping other entrepreneurs who want to do good but might be facing similar struggles. He has extensive experience in building, launching, and managing a successful beverage brand, growing Cano Water from a startup to a household name stocked in over 10,000 retail points across the UK, Europe, and the Middle East. Josh White's commitment to creating impactful social and environmental change has not gone unnoticed. As a Forbes 30 Under 30 honouree, he has been recognised for his passion and...
“Covacsis covers the entire aluminium value stream, from bauxite to alumina to downstream aluminium products,” Tarun Mishra, Founder, Covacsis
Tarun is the founder of Covacsis Technologies and was among the first few in the world to envisage the transformation of the current manufacturing system into algorithmic manufacturing as a next-generation manufacturing reality. Today, Covacsis is a leader in industry-based digital transformational solutions in India. Covacsis' IPF is helping the process industry increase productivity and reduce costs by using data and algorithms specifically developed for the process industry. As an alumnus of IIT Bombay, Tarun's love for writing and his musical talent on the drum set are just a few facets of his multifaceted personality. More importantly, he is deeply committed to creating employment opportunities for the weaker strata of society, a testament to his social engagement and compassion. AL...
“Hencon's vehicles are all built to ensure the highest safety and efficiency standards,” Peter Vanvuchelen, Director Sales & Business Development, Hencon
Peter Vanvuchelen is an accomplished professional with over eight years of experience in Business Development at Hencon. His career includes pivotal roles such as General Manager at Deutz Engines Benelux from 2014 to 2016, Director of Sales and Marketing at Linde Forklifts Benelux, and sales responsibilities for Caterpillar and Mitsubishi Forklifts across EMEA. Peter's expertise spans strategic business growth, sales management, and leadership in the industrial and automotive sectors. AL Circe: Can you provide an overview of Hencon's history and key milestones in the aluminium industry? How does Hencon stay ahead of technological advancements in the aluminium industry? Peter Vanvuchelen: Hencon was founded in the Netherlands in 1956. At the time, we mainly manufactured side loaders and...
Unveiling the benefits: 8011 aluminium foil for sustainable packaging excellence
The usage of aluminium foil has evolved significantly with time, transitioning from a simple household product wrapper to a vital material in the packaging industry. Among the materials available, 8011 aluminium foil emerges as a standout option. Known for its exceptional properties, 8011 aluminium foil provides numerous advantages that render it highly favoured for sustainable packaging applications. According to AL Circle’s published report , global aluminium foil usage increased from 5.3 million tonnes in 2018 to an estimated 6.1 million tonnes in 2023. The usage is further forecast to reach 7.2 million tonnes by 2028. Its versatile properties—including recyclability, flexibility, resistance to temperature and bacteria, and effective barriers against oxygen, light, and odours—have...
“At a high level, making aluminium and CO2 accessible as energy storage materials is a major contribution to the greater sustainability of our energy system,” Thomas Chepucavage, CEO & Dr Olaf Conrad, CTO, Flow Aluminum
Thomas Chepucavage is the CEO and a seasoned professional with over 22 years of experience building companies and leading teams across various industries. Thomas began his career with Accenture, advancing to VIP-level roles in high-growth ventures and gaining exposure to Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) at PNM. He co-founded Flow Aluminum in 2023, producing recyclable, rare-earth-free Aluminum-CO2 batteries with industry-leading energy density for applications from drones to grid storage. Over the past 20 years, Dr Olaf Conrad has created energy technology teams and organisations, from early concepts to full-fledged powerhouses in their respective markets. Stations of his career include Director of the Centre of Competence in Hydrogen and Fuel Cells in Cape Town, South Africa,...
Overview of the United States’ Q1 2024 aluminium imports: Strong trade agreement with Canada directing the trend
According to the United States Geological Survey, the United States imported 1.36 million tonnes of aluminium (including scrap) through the first quarter of 2024 ended March 31. That reflected an annual increase of 6.25 per cent from 1.28 million tonnes. In the individual month of 2024, the United States imported 448,000 tonnes, 492,000 tonnes, and 418,000 tonnes, indicating a fluctuating trend M-o-M. After a rise in February by 9.82 per cent, the United States’ aluminium imports in March decreased by 15 per cent. The top sources of imports in Q1 2024 included Canada (874,000 tonnes), the United Arab Emirates (69,600 tonnes), Mexico (63,900 tonnes), China (approximately 42,200 tonnes), and Argentina (41,100 tonnes). However, if compared to the previous year, imports from almost all the...
“Thermika infra-red ovens have significantly impacted energy savings and die performance in the aluminium extrusion industry,” Charbel Saliba, Director, Thermika Systems Inc.
Charbel Saliba, with a background in economics, ventured into entrepreneurial endeavours shortly after completing his university studies. He successfully built and sold several businesses independently before his career took a significant turn. This pivotal moment came when his father-in-law introduced him to the industrial heating industry. He gained extensive knowledge about the field and business operations in general from his father-in-law's mentoring and guidance. This support proved invaluable as Charbel navigated this new industry. Reflecting on these experiences, Charbel expresses deep gratitude, recognising their crucial role in shaping his professional journey. These formative experiences have led to his current success and the accomplished professional he is today. AL Circle:...
Africa & Asia’s alumina output rebounds in May 2024 exceeding 1 Mt; however, falls short of early-year level
Alumina production in Africa & Asia (ex-China) showcased an encouraging month-on-month rebound during May 2024, following a plunge in the previous month. The output surpassed the 1 million tonnes level but did not match the production volume in January, February, and March. According to the International Aluminium Institute, Africa & Asia’s alumina output in May recorded a significant growth of 12 per cent over a month, reaching 1.117 million tonnes. Annually, the production increased by 3.43 per cent from 1.080 million tonnes. However, despite the positive trend, May production lagged behind January, February, and March output by about 10 per cent, 5 per cent, and 8 per cent, respectively. From January to May 2024, Africa & Asia (ex-China) produced 5.727 million tonnes of alumina, up...
World alumina production exceeds 12 Mt level in May amid dampened output in Oceania
The world's alumina production once again crossed the 12 million tonnes level in May 2024 (31 calendar days), close to the output in March 2024, reflecting a month-on-month increase of 2.43 per cent. During the same period last year, the world's alumina output was also above 12 million tonnes but slightly less than this year, showing a marginal difference of 0.19 per cent. However, it is to be noted here that although the output in May 2024 nearly matches the production of last year but the overall trend of this year through the five months demonstrated much positive than in the previous year. Thus, the year-to-date world's alumina production of 2024 totalled 58.974 million tonnes, up by 2.52 per cent from 57.522 million tonnes in the earlier year, found the International Aluminium...
Japanese aluminium buyers conclude Q3 premium negotiations with 8% reduction
According to the latest report, Japanese aluminium buyers have agreed to pay an 8 per cent lower premium for primary aluminium shipments for Q3 2024, ending September 30, than the previous quarter. The news came after five sources directly involved in quarterly pricing talks reported. The last offer by global producers for Q3 was $185 to $190 per tonne, compared to which the current premium is 36-37 per cent lower, standing at $118 to $119 per tonne. As opposed to the previous quarter's premium of $128 per tonne, the third-quarter premium agreed upon is 7.8-7 per cent less, following two quarters of rising premiums. In Q2 2024, Japan's primary aluminium shipment premium was 35 per cent higher sequentially, while that in Q1 was 27 per cent more. "We have settled the deals at $118 and $119...
North America’s aluminium demand witnesses a 4.3% annual growth aligned with production surge
Aluminium demand in North America, stemming from the automotive, aerospace, construction, and packaging industries, is undergoing an upward movement, fuelled by a concerted move towards sustainability by manufacturers. The aluminium industry in North America is categorised by product type and end-user sectors. Aluminium castings, primarily serving the transportation sector, lead in demand among all product types, followed by flat-rolled products supporting the packaging industry. According to AL Circle’s report “ Global Aluminium Industry Outlook 2024 ,” North America accounted for approximately 21.5 per cent of the global aluminium flat-rolled product use and 8.25 per cent of extrusion use in 2023. Demand analysis In the first quarter of 2024, North America, including the United States...
China’s demand for Guinea bauxite fuels Capesize market surge
Capesize rates have recently surged past the $30,000 a day mark, largely driven by record-breaking bauxite shipments from West Africa to China. Bauxite, the primary source of aluminium, is a significant minor bulk commodity typically transported on Capesize vessels. According to the US Geological Survey, Guinea holds the largest bauxite reserves in the world. In the second quarter of this year, Greek broker Intermodal reported an "unprecedented surge" in bauxite exports from Guinea, reaching a new record, with the majority of these exports destined for China. China, a key player in the global market, has set a record in primary aluminium production. The significant growth in the first five months of 2024, compared to the same period in 2023, has led to a surge in demand for bauxite and...
Upward trajectory of China’s primary aluminium production is leaving strain on the alumina market
China achieved a record-high production of primary aluminium, reaching 3.65 million tonnes in May 2024, comparable to output levels seen in August and September of the previous year. This surge is bolstered by the restarting of smelters in Yunnan after a prolonged shutdown, promising an annual output of 43 million tonnes. However, this upward trajectory has significantly affected the alumina market, the key raw material for aluminium production, resulting in constrained supply and fluctuating ore prices. Alumina price movement Throughout May 2024, China's average alumina price surged, recording a growth rate of 13.24 per cent. According to the Shanghai Metals Market, the domestic alumina price increased over a month from RMB 3,451 per tonne to RMB 3,908 per tonne, reaching its highest...
AI-driven productivity gains may vary widely across European sectors
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is poised to make significant inroads across various European sectors, with smaller industries standing to benefit the most in the near term. While larger sectors may still need to be ready to implement AI fully, and some may never reach that point, the potential for productivity gains remains substantial, according to ING Think. ING suggests that the most immediate advantages will be seen in smaller sectors, where AI can be more easily integrated, and its impact is felt more quickly. These industries are likely to experience notable improvements in efficiency and innovation. On the other hand, larger sectors face more significant challenges in adopting AI technologies. The complexity and scale of these industries can hinder swift implementation, leading to...
Innovative Korean research enhances aluminium frames for bifacial solar modules
Korean scientists have developed a groundbreaking deep-learning alternative model to optimise aluminium frames in glass-glass bifacial photovoltaic panels (PVs). Addressing the escalating challenges posed by the growing size and weight of PV modules, the researchers highlighted a critical issue: the heightened susceptibility of aluminium frames to deflection. Deflection refers to the lateral deformation experienced by a structural element under load, a concern amplified by the increasing dimensions of modern PV panels. Aluminium frames play a crucial role in providing structural support to solar panels. They ensure they maintain their shape and integrity by preventing bending, warping, or sagging caused by their weight or external factors. The innovative deep-learning hybrid model...
Indonesia's critical minerals: A wealth beyond measure, but sustainability awaits
Indonesia, with its rich deposits of critical minerals, stands poised at the forefront of the global supply chain, particularly in the burgeoning electric vehicle (EV) market. The 2024 US Geological Survey report underscores Indonesia's dominance, placing it first worldwide in nickel reserves, which are crucial for EV batteries. Additionally, Indonesia ranks among the world's top tin producers, an essential component in smartphone manufacturing. Beyond nickel and tin, Indonesia's mineral wealth includes significant deposits of cobalt, bauxite, and copper. Indonesia has trade restrictions on bauxite and nickel. In 2020, the nation prohibited the export of nickel, and in 2023, it banned the export of bauxite . Indonesia has previously planned to impose a ban on exports of copper concentrate...
Africa’s primary aluminium production records a 6% M-o-M growth in May 2024 but continues the annual downtrend
In addition to China and the Gulf Cooperation Council, the substantial increase in Africa’s primary aluminium production also bolstered the world’s output significantly in May 2024. According to the International Aluminium Institute’s survey, Africa’s primary aluminium production in May increased by 5.74 per cent month-on-month, exceeding January and March’s output levels. But in contrast, the output on an annual basis edged a decrease of about 5.15 per cent. According to IAI, Africa’s primary aluminium production in May 2024 stood at 129,000 tonnes, compared to 122,000 tonnes in April 2024 and 136,000 tonnes in May 2023. With about a 6 per cent monthly hike, Africa’s primary aluminium production in May emerged as the highest output in the past five months of this year. The daily...
LME explores Hong Kong warehouse licensing to enhance China market services
The London Metal Exchange is considering licensing a warehouse in Hong Kong to enhance its services for clients in China, the world's largest metals market. At the metal exchange's annual Asia seminar in Hong Kong on June 27, Bonnie Chan, the Chief Executive Officer of Hong Kong Exchanges & Clearing Ltd. (which owns the LME), announced the commissioning of a comprehensive third-party study. This study will thoroughly assess the feasibility of establishing a warehouse in Hong Kong, ensuring that all potential factors are considered in the decision-making process. Hong Kong Exchanges & Clearing Ltd. (HKEX) has enhanced the holding company, providing LME and LME Clear ownership, underscoring the Group's strategic commitment to further developing its commodities business. Since Hong Kong...
