iGA update: Bahrain's aluminium-driven imports surge 5% in November 2024

The Information & eGovernment Authority (iGA) of Bahrain has released its foreign trade report for November 2024, revealing a significant 5 per cent increase in non-oil imports. This growth, driven by strong demand for aluminium and other key materials, saw the total value of non-oil imports reach BD 478 million (USD 1.27 billion) compared to BD 454 million (USD 1.20 billion) in the same period of 2023.

Image source: https://www.bahrainedb.com/

China remains a major supplier

China continued to dominate as Bahrain's primary import source, contributing a substantial BHD 73 million (USD 193.70 million) or 15 per cent of the total import value.

Aluminium oxide Takes the Lead

The report underscores the importance of the aluminium sector in Bahrain's import landscape. Aluminium oxide emerged as the top imported product, accounting for BHD 50 million (USD 132.5 million) or 10 per cent of the total. This significant demand for aluminium oxide suggests a robust domestic market for industries reliant on this crucial material.

Diversified Import Base

While China remains a key supplier, Bahrain's import base is diversifying. Australia followed China as a major source, contributing BHD 53 million (USD 140.45 million), while the United Arab Emirates secured the third position with BHD 38 million (USD 100.68 million) in imports.

Aluminium alloys play major role

Unwrought aluminium alloys were recorded as the top products exported in November 2024 with BD101 million (32 per cent), followed by agglomerated iron ores and concentrates Alloyed with a value of BHD30 million (9 per cent) and Unwrought aluminium not alloyed with BHD24 million (8 per cent).

Key Takeaways:

• The 5 per cent increase in non-oil imports signals a positive trend in Bahrain's economic activity.
• China's continued dominance as a major supplier underscores the importance of the bilateral trade relationship.
• The surge in aluminium oxide imports highlights the growing significance of the aluminium sector in the Bahraini economy.
• Bahrain's import base is diversifying with contributions from key regional and international partners.

FYR- Calculations made on the basis of the current conversion rate, i.e. 2.66 USD/BHD

Information source: Information & eGovernment Authority, Bahrain (https://www.iga.gov.bh/en/)