US unwrought aluminum imports fell by 6% in 2024 compared to 2023. This drop primarily resulted from sharp reductions in shipments from key supplier nations, causing ripples in the US aluminum market.
US customs data reveals that the US imported 3.917 million metric tonnes (t) of unwrought aluminum in full-year 2024. This figure represents a decrease from the 4.158 million t imported in 2023.
The UAE, previously the second-largest supplier, dramatically cut shipments. They shipped 23% less in 2024 than in 2023, totaling 435,200 t. Australia also significantly reduced their aluminum exports to the US. They decreased by 127,600 t to 82,400 t. As a result, Australia dropped from the third-largest supplier to the sixth-largest. South Africa also reduced their aluminum exports to the US by 30,000 t, sending 131,600 t.
However, Canada, the top supplier, increased its aluminum exports to the US. They shipped 91,800 t more, totaling 2.744 million t in 2024. This rise partly offset the losses from other nations. Notably, Canada now accounts for about 70% of all unwrought aluminum imports to the US, up from 64% in 2023.
Former U.S. President Donald Trump proposed a 10% tariff on all imports from Canada. This potential tariff could drive up prices for all aluminum and aluminum products in the US. This would be a significant concern, considering the US reliance on Canada. The US relies on its northern neighbor for roughly a third of its aluminum supply.
Changes in Major Supplier Volumes
While overall imports declined, the US increased its intake from some suppliers. India shipped 21,100 t more, becoming the seventh-largest supplier. India shipped 73,000 t in 2024. Argentina also shipped more, sending 16,700 t more. This significant increase moved Argentina to become the third-largest supplier, exporting 174,800 t in 2024.
In December 2024, the US imported 306,600 t of unwrought aluminum, 14,700 t less than in the same month a year earlier. Canada shipped 20,300 t less to the US, totaling 216,300 t in December 2024. But Argentina shipped 8,300 t more, sending 30,200 t to the US. This partially offset the drop from Canada.
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