Global primary aluminum deficit exceeds 360,000 tons in Q1
2026-05-28 11:42:28 [Print]
The global primary aluminum market faced a significant supply deficit during the first three months of 2026. According to data from the World Bureau of Metal Statistics (WBMS), first-quarter consumption reached 17.8796 million tons, outpacing global production of 17.5159 million tons. This imbalance resulted in a cumulative market shortage of 363,700 tons.
Figures from March further reflected this tight supply environment. Global primary aluminum demand stood at 5.9774 million tons, compared to output of 5.6333 million tons, creating a monthly deficit of 344,100 tons.
During the first quarter, global bauxite output reached 120.49 million tons, while alumina production totaled 36.40 million tons. In March alone, bauxite output was 41.90 million tons and alumina production reached 11.77 million tons. Total recycled aluminum production for the quarter amounted to 23.16 million tons.
Figures from March further reflected this tight supply environment. Global primary aluminum demand stood at 5.9774 million tons, compared to output of 5.6333 million tons, creating a monthly deficit of 344,100 tons.
During the first quarter, global bauxite output reached 120.49 million tons, while alumina production totaled 36.40 million tons. In March alone, bauxite output was 41.90 million tons and alumina production reached 11.77 million tons. Total recycled aluminum production for the quarter amounted to 23.16 million tons.
Alumina 98.5%min EXW China
Unit:RMB/mt
China alumina producers' sales to production ratio statistics by province by month
Unit: %
