This Morning in Metals: Aluminum Associations Demand Action on Market-Distorting Behavior

Aluminum Associations Demand Reforms

Yesterday, we noted steel associations around the world are asking governments to tackle the challenge of steel excess supply.
Now, aluminum associations are asking for reforms of their own, particularly in an effort to tackle activities that distort markets.

Jean Simard, president and CEO of the Aluminium Association of Canada; Gerd Götz, director general of European Aluminium, and Ryan Olsen, vice president of business information and statistics for the Aluminum Association, released a joint statement asking for action on the matter.

“Given the extent and duration of the harm suffered by the aluminium industry, we are calling for swift, focused and decisive action on market-distorting behavior and excess capacity in both the upstream and downstream sectors,” they said. “On behalf of our respective member companies, we stand ready to support Governments and international organizations with our knowledge, data and commitment to articulate improved trade rules and to restore normal market functions so that all producers throughout the aluminum value chain can compete under conditions of fairness and transparency.”

China’s Semi-Finished Steel Imports Jump in September

China’s imports of semi-finished steel increased in September amid new restrictions earlier this year on scrap imports, Reuters reported.
According to the report, China imported 370,000 tons of semi-finished steel in September, which marked a 418% year-over-year increase.

Freeport’s Copper Sales Fall in 3Q

Miner Freeport McMoRan reported its third-quarter financial results Wednesday, reporting an adjusted net loss of $8 million.
Sales of copper and gold in the third quarter were down on a year-over-year basis “reflecting anticipated lower mill rates and ore grades as PT Freeport Indonesia (PT-FI) transitions mining from the open pit to underground,” according to the firm.
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Third-quarter copper sales reached 795 million pounds, down from 1.0 billion pounds in 3Q 2018. Gold sales totaled 243,000 ounces, down from 837,000 ounces in 3Q 2018.