MYSTEEL: Middle East supply disruptions seen supporting China's aluminum prices

The conflict in the Middle East has begun to have a tangible impact on aluminum production in the region, with the risk of a global supply shortfall seen pushing Chinese prices of primary aluminum higher. While much of the recent price strength has been attributed to sentiment-driven trading, emerging operational disruptions suggest that the rally may be supported by a more durable fundamental support, according to Mysteel's recent analytical report on the light metal.

On March 18, the regional conflict had entered its third week, with its impact extending beyond market sentiment to materially disrupt primary aluminum smelting in several Middle Eastern countries, the report noted. For instance, on March 12 Qatalum, the 50/50 joint venture between Norsk Hydro and Qatar Aluminum Manufacturing,