A rare earth metals report by none other than a state-backed research institute is not only likely to unsettle the Chinese authorities, it has also come as a bolt out of the blue for the rest of the world. A report by the Chinese Academy of Sciences released a few days ago said China’s dominance […]
Category: Imports
Buckle Up, Shippers: U.S. Eyes Up to $1.5M Fees on Chinese-Built Vessels
Importers and consumers of products containing imported components should stay alert regarding the latest logistics news, as the United States Trade Representative (USTR) plans to hold a public hearing on March 24, 2025, regarding proposed Section 301 port call fees. If implemented, this measure could reshape global shipping dynamics and have far-reaching consequences for international […]
Aluminum Trade War Heats Up: How Will China and India React to U.S. Tariffs?
The world now waits to see how two aluminum market leaders, China and India, will react to U.S. President Donald Trump’s imposition of 25% tariffs on metal imports. Between them, these two nations produce about 50 million metric tons (MT) of aluminum yearly. However, China significantly outpaces India, alone producing about 43 MT per year. […]
Aluminum MMI: How Have Aluminum Tariffs Impacted the Market?
The Aluminum Monthly Metals Index (MMI) remained sideways with an upward bias. Overall, the index rose 1.16% from February to March, supported by modest increases in global aluminum prices. Midwest Premium Futures Stall after Aluminum Tariffs The aluminum market has started to settle following a sharp uptrend in U.S. premiums that began late last year. […]
Stainless MMI: Outokumpu Cuts Discounts, Nickel Prices Rise
The Stainless Monthly Metals Index (MMI) remained sideways, supported by modest increases among most of its components. The index rose by a modest 0.56% from February to March. Meanwhile, nickel prices continued their uptrend. Outokumpu Reduces Stainless Steel Discounts Outokumpu closed out February announcing reductions to a number of stainless steel discounts. Beginning March 1, […]
Raw Steels MMI: When Will Steel Prices Peak?
Rising steel prices saw the Raw Steels Monthly Metals Index (MMI) jump by 5.59% from February to March. Steel Prices Surge on Tariff News As of mid-March, steel prices remained decidedly bullish and in search of a new peak as U.S. tariffs set the market on fire. Hot rolled coil prices hit their highest level […]
Copper MMI: Copper Prices Up on 25% Tariff Threat
The Copper Monthly Metals Index (MMI) held sideways, although the upside bias continued to accelerate. Supported by a rise among most of its components, the index increased 2.8% from January to February. 25% Tariff Threat Boosts Comex Copper Price Comex copper prices remained decidedly bullish, jumping even higher on the suggestion that a 25% copper […]
Automotive MMI: Hot-Dipped Galvanized Prices Spike Amongst New Tariffs
The Automotive MMI (Monthly Metals Index) increased by 4.47% month over month. The primary culprit for the bullish sentiment was hot-dipped galvanized prices rising due to tariff anticipation from the automotive industry. U.S. Automotive Industry Faces Rising Costs and Trade Challenges The U.S. automotive sector is grappling with economic pressures that could alter its operational […]
Worried About Trump Tariffs? Here’s Our Comprehensive Guide to 2025 Steel and Aluminum Tariffs
In February 2025, President Trump reinstated and expanded the Section 232 tariffs on all steel (including stainless steel products) and aluminum imports, setting a flat 25% duty effective March 12, 2025 (what’s known as the “Trump Tariffs”). This renewed policy removes all previously negotiated country-specific exemptions and broadens the tariff’s scope to include a diverse […]
Are Trump’s Tariffs Causing a Global Metal Market Earthquake?
The so-called “Trump Tariffs” have shaken things up for metal traders worldwide. At least three countries in the Asia Pacific region will see significant impacts from U.S. President Donald Trump’s 25% tariff imposition on steel and aluminum. In addition to increasing the rate to 25% from the previous 10%, President Trump also removed exemptions and […]