UAE Aluminium Exports to U.S. Surge Ahead of Trump Tariffs

UAE, 14 March, 2025 : The United Arab Emirates' aluminium exports to the U.S. saw a sharp increase in early March as buyers rushed to secure shipments before the 25% tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump took effect. According to U.S. Department of Commerce data, the UAE exported 68,560 metric tons of aluminium to the U.S. in the first 11 days of March, significantly higher than the 16,124 metric tons exported during all of March 2024. This surge pushed UAE exports to a near two-year high on a monthly basis.

The UAE, which accounted for 8% of total U.S. aluminium consumption in 2024, is the second-largest supplier to the U.S. after Canada, which provides about 70% of primary and alloyed aluminium. In response to U.S. tariffs, Canada has announced 25% retaliatory tariffs on steel, aluminium, and other goods, leading to concerns about trade tensions and potential supply shifts.

Analysts suggest that U.S. importers may seek alternative suppliers given the uncertainty surrounding trade with Canada. Yulia Buchneva, director at Fitch Ratings, noted that the UAE has a competitive edge due to its lower production costs, with Emirates Global Aluminium (EGA) being the lowest-cost aluminium producer globally. She added that despite the tariff, UAE aluminium exports to the U.S. are likely to remain profitable.

EGA, one of the world’s largest aluminium producers, stated that market volatility will continue into 2025 due to global trade tensions. However, it expects the alumina market to stabilize as additional production capacity comes online this year.

Meanwhile, benchmark aluminium prices on the London Metal Exchange have increased 5% in 2025, reaching $2,675 per metric ton, though they have retreated from their February peak of $2,736.