Core Viewpoint - The alumina market has experienced significant fluctuations in 2025, characterized by a transition from supply shortages to oversupply, leading to price declines and subsequent rebounds due to production adjustments and external disruptions [2][3][5]. Supply and Production - In the first half of 2025, alumina prices fell sharply from over 4600 to below 2700, marking a new low since listing, primarily due to increased production and a shift to oversupply [2]. - By the end of May 2025, domestic alumina production capacity reached 10,890 million tons/year, a year-on-year increase of 6.45%, while operational capacity was 8,460 million tons/year, showing a slight decrease of 0.82% year-on-year [5]. - The overall alumina supply has cycled from oversupply to tightness and back to oversupply, with significant production cuts occurring in response to industry losses [5][8]. Price Trends - The alumina market saw a V-shaped price movement from mid-May to the end of June, influenced by temporary supply tightness and subsequent profit recovery among producers [3]. - Despite a slight rebound in prices, the overall expectation remains for continued oversupply, which is likely to exert downward pressure on prices [8][17]. Demand Dynamics - The demand for alumina is not expected to see significant improvement, as the electrolytic aluminum sector, a major downstream consumer, faces capacity constraints [9]. - In the first five months of 2025, China's alumina exports increased significantly, with a total of 117.23 million tons exported, reflecting a year-on-year growth of 79.37% [9]. External Factors - The Guinea mining sector faced disruptions due to government actions, but the overall impact on alumina supply was limited, as exports from Guinea remained robust [11][12]. - Despite concerns over mining operations in Guinea, the overall alumina supply situation is expected to remain stable, with no significant shortages anticipated [13][17]. Cost and Profitability - The average production cost for alumina in China was reported at 2879.8 yuan/ton, with an average profit of 187.20 yuan/ton, indicating a challenging profitability landscape despite declining costs [15][17]. - The industry is expected to continue facing pressure from oversupply, with potential for further production cuts if losses persist [17].
供应过剩压力下溃败,下半年氧化铝仍“负重前行”?
Wen Hua Cai Jing·2025-07-04 12:32