US Aluminum Imports 5-24-25

In 2023, the United States consumed significantly more aluminum than it produced, relying heavily on imports to meet demand. While U.S. aluminum production (both primary and secondary) was 4.05 million tons, the U.S. imported 5.54 million tons, resulting in net imports of 2.24 million tons.  

The primary aluminum smelters in the U.S. are primarily located in Kentucky, South Carolina, and New York. Century Aluminum has smelters in Sebree, KY, Hawesville, KY, and Mt. Holly, SC. Alcoa operates smelters in Massena, NY, and Warrick, IN. There is also a previously operating smelter in New Madrid, MO. 

https://www.google.com/search?q=where+are+the+us+aluminum+smelters+located

In 2024, the U.S. imported $28.31 billion worth of aluminum, with Canada being the top source of imports, followed by the United Arab Emirates and China. Canada provided over 58% of U.S. aluminum imports in 2024, while the UAE and China supplied smaller portions. 

In 2024, the apparent consumption of aluminum in the United States was about 4.3 million metric tons. This figure is slightly higher than the 4.15 million metric tons consumed in 2023. The transportation sector accounted for roughly 36% of that consumption. 

Canada is a major supplier of aluminum to the United States, accounting for a significant portion of US aluminum imports. In 2024, Canada provided roughly 60% of all U.S. aluminum imports, making it the top supplier. The US imports a variety of aluminum products from Canada, including bars, rods, profiles, and articles of aluminum. 

The UAE is a significant supplier of aluminum to the US, and its exports have seen a surge recently, according to data from the US Department of Commerce and Reuters. The UAE is the second-largest aluminum supplier to the US, accounting for 8% of US consumption. A major factor in this recent surge is the implementation of tariffs on steel and aluminum imports, which has led to a significant increase in shipments from the UAE. 

In 2023, the United States imported approximately $3.07 billion worth of aluminum from China, representing about 10.85% of total US aluminum imports. In 2024, China's share of US aluminum imports was 2%,

In 2024, the US transportation sector accounted for the largest share of aluminum consumption, at around 36%, followed by packaging, building, and electrical sectors. Specific uses include automotive components, cans, and structural elements in buildings, according to USGS and The Aluminum Association. 

Comments

The addition of auto manufacturing plants in the US will require foreign auto companies to build plants in the US and will require expansion of aluminum production. Plants building auto parts should be included in this expansion to shorten supply chains.

Norb Leahy, Dunwoody GA Tea Party Leader