U.S. and Canada Aluminum Demand Surged in Q1 This Year

SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): The demand for the aluminum industry in the U.S. and Canada increased by 4.3% year-on-year during the initial quarter of the year, said prteliminary estimates published by the Aluminum Association. The figures suggest signs of industry recovery, following a dip in demand by 3.9% recorded in 2023.

The North American aluminum demand totalled an estimated 6,955 million pounds in Q1 this year, compared to the demand of 6,666 million pounds recorded in the corresponding quarter a year before. The total semi-fabricated product demand was up marginally during the quarter.

The average orders received by domestic producers through April this year was up by 4.8% year-on-year.

The exports of aluminum ingot and mill products from the U.S. and Canada to date stood at 769 million pounds, significantly higher by nearly 37% over the previous year.

Meantime, the foil and extruded products shipments dropped by 19.2% and 5.4% respectively in Q1 this year.

Charles Johnson, president & CEO of the Aluminum Association noted that there has been a continued interest for more sustainable, recyclable material options from its customers and end consumers. The North American region, especially the U.S., is one of the world’s best places to make and use aluminum, he added.