The Aluminum Shock Hitting the Global Economy
The global aluminum market is being squeezed by two powerful forces at once: conflict in the Middle East and rising US tariffs.
Industry executives say disruptions to production and shipping in the Gulf region are removing significant supply from global markets just as tariffs are already pushing prices higher for American buyers.
Jean Simard of the Aluminium Association of Canada warns the full impact of blocked shipments and damaged smelters has yet to hit North America, while Norsk Hydro executive Trond Christophersen says Asian markets are facing even greater physical supply risks.
For manufacturers like Minnesota-based Wolf Tooth Components, the combination of tariffs, supply disruptions and surging demand from AI data centers is driving costs sharply higher and creating new uncertainty across the aluminum supply chain. (Source: Bloomberg)
China's Factory Activity Slows
- China’s manufacturing activity stayed flat in May after expanding for two straight months, reflecting the pressure from rising energy costs since the Middle East conflict began Wall Street Journal —
- China Factory Activity Worsens in Warning Sign for Economy Bloomberg —
- Soaring prices during the Iran war jeopardize travel to tourism-dependent countries in Asia The Independent —
- China's factory activity slows in May, raising questions over its economy ABC News —
- China’s factory activity slows in May, raising questions over its economy The Independent —