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...
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Oman’s trade surplus hits RO 1.693 billion; metal exports soar by 142.7%
The Sultanate of Oman has achieved a significant trade surplus of RO 1.693 billion by the end of February 2024, marking a notable increase from the RO 1.378 billion surplus recorded during the same period in 2023. This information comes from the latest preliminary statistics the National Centre for Statistics and Information (NCSI) released. The data underscore a positive trend in Oman's trade balance, reflecting robust economic activities and possibly effective policy measures to boost trade. As Oman continues to navigate the complexities of the global economic landscape, this surplus is a testament to its resilience and strategic financial planning. The NCSI's figures highlight the Sultanate's ongoing efforts to enhance its trade performance and strengthen its economic foundation....
Nissan Motors plans to embrace low CO2 emission aluminium parts composed of recycled material
Nissan Motor is gearing up to integrate low CO 2 emission aluminium parts, crafted from green or recycled sources, into upcoming and existing models starting from the fiscal year 2024. This initiative holds significant promise, with aluminium constituting about 10 per cent of a vehicle's weight. Nissan's ambitious target Looking ahead to 2030, Nissan is setting ambitious targets, aiming to incorporate recycled aluminium components across its entire vehicle lineup. This strategic move aligns with the company's broader mission of achieving carbon neutrality by harnessing low CO 2 emission aluminium. The ultimate goal is to ensure that every stage of a Nissan vehicle's lifecycle, from production to disposal, is carbon neutral by 2050. Green aluminium, produced using electricity derived from...
Primary aluminium weekly: Joe Biden’s spiked tariff strategy for China; Alba's presents mixed Q1 2024 results amid economic challenges
In a series of pivotal moves, the aluminium industry has witnessed significant developments, from tariff impositions by the United States to technological advancements by major global players. President Joe Biden's decision to increase tariffs on Chinese imports, Alba's financial results amid fluctuating LME prices, Hong Leong Investment Bank's optimistic forecasts for Press Metal, RUSAL's AI integration, and EGA's digital manufacturing initiative collectively signal a dynamic shift towards sustainability, innovation, and fair trade practices. Joe Biden's tariff strategy - Century Aluminum's response To safeguard American manufacturers against unfair trade practices, President Joe Biden has substantially increased tariffs on Chinese imports, including aluminium. The new tariffs, set at...
Hindalco’s latest price hike brings its aluminium ingot price to INR248500/t
This week, dated May 15 and 16, Hindalco’s aluminium prices saw two consecutive days of alteration. On Wednesday, May 15, Hindalco’s aluminium prices were cut from the previous week in line with the LME aluminium price fall, while Hindalco’s prices on May 16 saw an elevation in concurrence with the LME aluminium price hike. On May 15, Hindalco trimmed its aluminium ingot price by INR 3,250 per tonne, or 1.31 per cent, to INR 244000 per tonne. As far as aluminium wire rod and billet prices were concerned, they too experienced a cut of INR 3,250 per tonne, reaching INR 261,000 per tonne and INR 258,100 per tonne, respectively. On the subsequent day, Hindalco increased its aluminium ingot price by INR 4,500 per tonne or 1.84 per cent to INR 248,500 per tonne as of May 16. Hindalco’s...
China’s primary aluminium production grows 7.2% Y-o-Y in April’24 as investors bet on potential profit margin
According to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), China’s primary aluminium production rose 7.2 per cent from a year earlier, standing at 3.58 million tonnes. Aluminium price rally in China and across the globe drove the output hike during the said period. China’s average daily aluminium output in April was 119,333 tonnes, up by 3.05 per cent from 115,806 tonnes in March, according to Reuters calculation based on NBS data. In Yunnan, China’s fourth-biggest aluminium producing province, resumed some operations in April amid uncertain time ahead due to drought and reduced rainfall. If China’s primary aluminium production in April is calculated M-o-M, the output stood slightly less than 3.59 million tonnes Aluminium prices grew in April on potential demand growth from domestic clean...
On the right track: The application of aluminium in railways
With the rapid advancement of human civilisation, air pollution and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions have posed a significant threat to humanity for years. Energy conservation and emission reduction have become crucial priorities in the transportation industry. According to AL Circle's report, "Global Aluminium Industry Outlook 2024," aluminium usage in the transportation sector was 27.5 million tonnes in 2023. This demand is expected to increase to 28.2 million tonnes in 2024.Today, millions of people and tonnes of goods are transported on trains yearly because they are the most efficient, convenient, and comfortable means of transportation. Since their inception during the Industrial Revolution of the 19th century, railways have undergone constant development to increase their efficiency,...
“Aluminium is a great distributor and conductor of heat. These are properties that make it an exceptional substrate for cooking and baking,” Coppice Alupack Ltd
Leon Elston – Managing Director, Coppice Alupack Ltd Leon Elston, Managing Director of Coppice, has been with the company for over 11 years. He holds an MBA from the University of Glamorgan and is leading the foil packaging brand to success. Derek Nixon – Senior Director of Strategy and Business Development, Coppice Alupack Ltd Derek Nixon is the Senior Director of Strategy and Business Development at Coppice. He has extensive experience in managing international and national retail concepts, branded supply, and manufacturing. His expertise lies in business control, growth strategies, organisation restructuring, and project/program management. Derek has led large transformational and growth teams in both developing and operational environments, working with traditional and digital revenue...
Mexico's vehicle production soars to new heights in April'24
The month of April' 24 witnessed a 21.7 per cent increase in vehicle production in Mexico compared to last year's period, reaching a record high of 358,575 units. According to data from the National System of Statistical and Geographical Information (INEGI), eight assembly companies ramped up their production, while five saw a decline. INEGI is an autonomous public institution responsible for regulating and coordinating the National System of Statistical and Geographical Information. Its mandate encompasses collecting and distributing data pertaining to Mexico's territory, resources, population, and economy. By providing comprehensive insights into the nation's characteristics, INEGI facilitates informed decision-making processes. Mexico has become a significant force in the automotive...
China’s BNM technology launches the F316 Rectangular Peel-Off End with retortable aluminium foil
Chinese can manufacturer Bosun New Material & Technology Co (BNM) has unveiled what they claim to be the first rectangular peel-off end of its size, along with a peel-off end featuring a built-in straw insertion capability. The F316 rectangular peel-off end has been designed with either a retortable aluminium foil or transparent membrane, catering to diverse packaging needs such as seafood, meat, or ready meals. The PO! Peel-off end features a straw insertion mechanism and is engineered for hassle-free usage. It is compatible with a range of materials, including steel and aluminium, and boasts high-temperature resistance. These pioneering developments were showcased at the recent Latamcan conference in Buenos Aires, Argentina. The peel-off feature incorporates a conveniently perforated...
2023's top primary aluminium exporters: Leading nations revealed
The world primary aluminium market demonstrated a modest growth trajectory in 2023 despite a few challenges like geo-political crises, inflation, economic slowdown, and high rate of bank interest. Both production and consumption of primary aluminium grew hand-in-hand, reaching approximately 70.6 million tonnes and 70.1 million tonnes, respectively. Consequently, exports saw an uptick, having China the net importer of primary metal. Notably, in 2023, China's primary aluminum imports surged by 130.7 percent from the previous year, totaling 1.543 million tonnes. In 2023, the leading exporters of primary aluminum were Canada, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), Russia, India, and Australia, while the top importers included the United States of America, South Korea, China, Germany, and Japan....
Continued LME aluminium price drop drives NALCO to further cut its aluminium prices by INR6700/t
In response to the continued decline of the global aluminium price on the London Metal Exchange (LME), National Aluminium Company Limited (NALCO) has further reduced its aluminium ingot and aluminium product prices, with effect from May 1, 2024. This latest cut marks the second consecutive reduction in NALCO’s aluminium selling prices. Last time, on April 26, NALCO had trimmed its aluminium prices by INR 5,200 per tonne, and subsequently with effect from May 1, NALCO slashed the prices by another INR 6,700 per tonne. Hence, the company’s aluminium ingot price is currently standing at INR 245,450-248,950 per tonne versus INR 252,150-255,650 per tonne on April 26. NALCO’s aluminium wire rod and aluminium billet prices are ranging between INR 254,450-258,800 per tonne and INR 249,900-252,550...
US recycled aluminium gains traction as scrap recovery surges in Feb’ 2024 and primary metal output continues to decline
The US Geological Survey's latest data showed the United States’ domestic primary aluminium production trended down during the first two months of 2024, while scrap recovery surged suggesting the country's constant shift to recycled aluminium from the primary metal. Image courtesy: USGS Scrap recovery Aluminium recovered from scrap in February 2024 was 293,000 tonnes, 6.54 per cent up from 275,000 tonnes a month ago and 6.93 per cent more than 274,000 tonnes a year earlier. Of the total scrap recovered, 163,000 tonnes was recovered from new scrap and 129,000 tonnes from old scrap. The total recovery of scrap in the first two months of 2024 was 568,000 tonnes, compared to 552,000 tonnes a year ago. Primary aluminium output From January to February 2024, the United States combined...
Turning low-grade bauxite into high-quality ore with green technology
The ecological transition presents an exceptional opportunity for emerging leaders seeking purpose. Romain Girbal, the co-founder of IB2, is encouraging young managers to embrace green initiatives, which not only foster growth but also cultivate meaningful leadership in our dynamic business environment. With environmental issues mounting, sustainable practices are advantageous and essential for companies aiming to stay competitive and socially conscious. Transforming the ecological impact of the aluminium industry is the core mission at IB2, where co-founder Romain Girbal has seen firsthand how prioritising sustainability can drive both innovation and economic prosperity. IB2's pioneering approach involves converting low-grade bauxite into high-grade ore, a breakthrough dramatically...
Elliott Management secures significant stake in Sumitomo Corp., Warren Buffett's pick
Elliott Management Corp.'s move to acquire a significant stake in Sumitomo Corp., a favoured Japanese trading house of Warren Buffett, signals potential shifts in the market. With Elliott's reputation for activist investing, this development could lead to interesting changes within Sumitomo's operations or governance structure. It's a noteworthy development in finance, especially considering the involvement of influential figures like Buffett and Elliott Management. Elliott Investment Management is an American investment management firm. It is also one of the largest activist funds in the world and is one of the oldest investment managers of its kind under continuous management. As of December 31, 2023, Elliott manages approximately $65.5 billion in assets. The anonymous source mentioned...
New report showcases aluminium foil as the top contender for global packaging needs
The aluminium foil industry stands as a silent powerhouse, an unsung hero of modern living that quietly shapes various sectors worldwide. As per the report by Persistence Market Research, aluminium foil, a marvel of material science, has transcended its humble origins as a kitchen staple to become a versatile product with a multitude of traditional and cutting-edge applications. Did you know that the global consumption of aluminium foil surged from 5.3 million tonnes in 2018 to an estimated 6.1 million tonnes by 2023? This upward trajectory in demand is expected to continue in the coming years, driven by rising recycling rates, particularly in the packaging and consumer goods sectors. To delve deeper into the fascinating realm of the aluminium foil market, consider getting your hands on...
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Africa & Asia’s (ex-China) alumina production trends up in Q1 2024 by 15.9% Y-o-Y
According to the International Aluminium Institute, alumina production in Africa & Asia (ex-China) amounted to 1.234 million tonnes during March 2024, up by 5.38 per cent from 1.171 million tonnes in February 2024. The output recovered in March after a fall in the previous month by 3.22 per cent from 1.21 million tonnes. On a year-on-year calculation, the March 2024 alumina output in Africa & Asia (ex-China) edged a hike of 18.65 per cent from 1.04 million tonnes. In the first three months of 2024, Africa & Asia’s (ex-China) alumina production totalled 3.613 million tonnes, up by 2.91 per cent from 3.511 million tonnes during the fourth quarter of 2023 and 15.91 per cent more than 3.117 million tonnes during the first quarter of 2023. Africa & Asia is the world’s second largest alumina...
Hindalco and Vedanta cut their aluminium selling prices by 1% with effect from May 3
Hindalco Industries Limited and Vedanta Limited have trimmed their aluminium ingot and aluminium product prices, with effect from May 3, 2024, following a plunge on the prior day by US$44.50 per tonne or 1.74 per cent. Hindalco has cut its aluminium ingot price by INR 2,500 per tonne or 1 per cent to INR 246,500 per tonne on May 3 versus INR 249,000 per tonne on April 30. Similarly, the company’s aluminium wire rod and aluminium billet prices have seen a cut of INR 2,500 per tonne, with effect from May 3, to stand at INR 263,500 per tonne and INR 260,600 per tonne, respectively, compared to INR 266,000 per tonne and INR 263,100 per tonne on April 30. Vedanta’s aluminium ingot price, on the other hand, has experienced a fall of INR 4,250 per tonne or 1.29 per cent to range between INR...
Africa's Q1 2024 primary aluminium production drops by 7.7% despite March recovery
Primary aluminium production in Africa decreased during the first quarter of 2024 despite a recovery in the quarter’s last month. However, the output in March demonstrated a fall on a year-on-year basis. According to the International Aluminium Institute, primary aluminium production in Africa during Q1 2024 totalled 371,000 tonnes, reflecting a sequential plunge of 31,000 tonnes or 7.71 per cent from 402,000 tonnes. On a year-on-year basis, the Q1 2024 output stood 5.36 per cent lower than 392,000 tonnes. Africa’s primary aluminium production increased in March by 5,000 tonnes month-on-month from 121,000 tonnes to 126,000 tonnes. On an annual basis, the March 2024 output edged a fall of 5,000 tonnes or 3.82 per cent from 131,000 tonnes. Africa’s daily average production of primary...
