Imports of unrefined aluminum to the United States in June decreased by 25.6% year-on-year to 285 thousand tons, according to S&P Global data. The decrease occurred against the background of the introduction by President Donald Trump of 50% duties on aluminum and steel imports from June 4. Supplies from Canada, the largest aluminum exporter to the United States, took the brunt of the blow: they fell by 43% from 232.6 thousand tons a year ago to 132.7 thousand tons in June this year. Manufacturers have warned that the new duties limit American companies' access to Canadian raw materials, which cover up to two-thirds of U.S. demand. Alcoa, the largest aluminum company, has already redirected about 100,000 tons of products from Canada to other markets. The decrease in imports is partially offset by an increase in supplies from other regions. Thus, the volume of imports from India more than doubled to 38.9 thousand tons compared to 18.5 thousand tons a year earlier. According to analysts, the new tariffs will reformat global trade flows: Canadian aluminum goes to Europe, and supplies from India and the Middle East can fill the deficit in the United States.
