China's imports of aluminium increased by 28% in 2023, reaching 3.06 million metric tons, according to customs data. Robust domestic demand, particularly in the solar and auto sectors, coupled with higher prices, drove the surge in imports. China's primary aluminium consumption was forecasted to grow by 3.9% in 2023, in contrast to a 3.5% contraction in demand outside of China. The country also saw a significant increase in imports of primary aluminium from Russia, accounting for 77% of China's total imports in the January to November period. Additionally, imports of bauxite, a key raw material for aluminium, rose by 12.9% in 2023.

SOURCE:HELLENIC SHIPPING NEWS