According to data from the General Administration of Customs of the People's Republic of China (GACC), China imported approximately 55,100 tonnes of unwrought aluminum alloys in June 2026, representing a year-on-year decrease of 22,300 tonnes (down 28.81%) and a month-on-month decrease of 9,400 tonnes (down 14.57%). The cumulative import volume for 2026 reached approximately 433,600 tonnes, a year-on-year decline of 20.04%.
In terms of source countries, the top four suppliers of unwrought aluminum alloys to China in June 2026 were Russia, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Thailand. Specifically, imports from Russia stood at approximately 14,400 tonnes, accounting for 26.05% of total imports; Vietnam at approximately 10,100 tonnes (18.42%); Malaysia at 7,700 tonnes (14.06%); and Thailand at approximately 6,500 tonnes (11.84%).
In July, domestic ADC12 prices fluctuated within a narrow range. Imported ADC12 prices remained elevated due to high overseas procurement costs, and domestic holders showed strong sentiment to hold offers firm.
As of July 21,2026, spot Malaysian ADC12 was quoted at around Yuan 22,900/tonne in the domestic market, while off-spec Malaysian material was quoted at around Yuan 22,200/tonne.
Constrained by raw material shortages and tighter tax rebate policies, cost support for domestic ADC12 aluminum alloy ingots remained strong. However, July marks the traditional off-season for the casting industry, with downstream demand generally weak, leaving little room for ADC12 prices to rise.
Overseas ADC12 prices are generally higher than domestic quotes. Although occasional export offers from certain overseas mills appear relatively competitive, available volumes are limited.
Moreover, new orders placed by intermediaries are mostly scheduled to arrive at Chinese ports in August and September. As such, imports of unwrought aluminum alloys in July are expected to remain at low levels.
Written by Regina WANG
wangjiaqie@mysteel.com
