Insight
China alumina: Shanxi research trip takeaways
Report summary
China’s alumina prices have skyrocketed since the start of the year. Spot prices vaulted higher, mainly supported by supply disruptions and feedstock bottlenecks. An uptick in alumina prices and increased margins encouraged some refineries to restart capacity that was suspended at the end of last year. During our recent field trip to Shanxi province, we observed that some alumina refineries were better prepared to restart operations than others. These were ones that had been building stock of imported and domestic bauxite in recent months. Meanwhile, other refineries were cought unprepared and still face operating challenges. In this insight, we cover the major challenges they are experiencing and potential opportunities.
Table of contents
-
Executive summary
- Domestic mining activity is restricted
- which promotes the consumption of imported bauxite
- Various bauxite sources influence product quality
- Bauxite imported from Guinea and Australia
- The rising cost of imported bauxite
- Storage lifespan of red mud facilities varies from refinery to refinery
- Restarting of smelting capacity benefits alumina spot prices in the short term
- Conclusion
Tables and charts
This report includes 3 images and tables including:
- Production shares of China’s alumina supply by province, 2014 vs. 2024
- Guinea's share and prices increasing in China bauxite imports
- The storage lifespan of red mud facilities in some Shanxi refineries
What's included
This report contains:
Other reports you may be interested in
Asset Report
Heqing Yixin aluminium smelter
This 420-ktpa smelter uses hydropower in Yunnan province.
$2,250
Insight
China economic focus March 2024: how to achieve the 5% growth target?
Equipment and auto renewal and exports could pose upside surprises for the Chinese economy in 2024.
$950
Asset Report
Yulin aluminium smelter
A detailed analysis of the Yulin aluminium smelter.
$2,250
