US aluminium imports slip 2% in H1 2025 amid tariffs and softer demand
The flow of aluminium into the United States softened in the first half of 2025 as tariffs, weaker industrial activity, and higher energy costs reshaped buying patterns. Primary aluminium imports came in at 1.81 million tonnes, a touch lower than the 1.85 million tonnes recorded in the same period a year earlier — a 2 per cent decline.
The year started briskly, with first-quarter imports rising to 1.07 million tonnes from 0.91 million tonnes in early 2024 as traders rushed to move cargoes ahead of expected tariff increases. But momentum soon faded as the second quarter unfolded.
Monthly shipments fluctuated sharply. Imports surged in March to 438,000 tonnes, up from 270,000 tonnes the year before, but demand tailed off almost immediately afterward. January stood at 335,000 tonnes against 297,000 tonnes a year earlier, while February dipped to 298,000 tonnes from 344,000 tonnes.
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