According to statistics from the US Commerce Department (USDOC), US imports of primary aluminum in April fell by 20% year-on-year to about 281,500 tons, as buyers reacted to the 25% import tariffs implemented in March. In March, imports surged to around 442,000 tons as companies purchased in advance before the tariffs were implemented.

In April, imports from Canada dropped by 23% to 186,000 tons and the UAE fell by 19% to 41,600 tons, while the supply from South Africa more than doubled to 17,700 tons, all on a year-on-year basis.

Recently, the US doubled the tariff rate to 50% for all countries except the UK, pushing domestic aluminum prices to record highs. The US is extremely dependent on imports of primary aluminum, and it remains to be seen how consumers will adjust their purchasing strategies in the face of the recent tariff increase.