The CPCA released the latest data showing that from July 1 to 26, retail sales in the national new energy passenger vehicle market reached 738,000 units, down 2% from the same period in July last year and down 10% MoM. This year, cumulative retail sales have reached 5.443 million units, a YoY decline of 13%.

On July 29, SMM battery-grade nickel sulphate average price remained stable.

According to the latest data from China's General Administration of Customs, China's cumulative exports of aluminum foil (HS code 7607-series) reached 683,200 mt in January-June 2026, with a total export value of approximately $1.479 billion. Among them, June exports hit 131,000 mt, marking the H1 peak, up 9.70% MoM and 24% YoY.

[SMM Analysis: "Export Boom" Pulse Peaks, SHFE/LME Price Ratio Recovery Pressures H2 Aluminum Foil Exports] According to the latest data from China's General Administration of Customs, in H1 2026, China's cumulative exports of aluminum foil (HS Code 7607-series) reached 683,200 mt, with a cumulative export value of about $1.479 billion. June exports alone hit 131,000 mt, a peak for H1, up 9.70% MoM and 24% YoY. The sharp surge in June exports was mainly driven by overseas clients locking in export orders earlier when the SHFE/LME price ratio was still widening, boosting shipments for the month.

As of now, the FOB price of Indonesian MHP nickel is $15,435/mt Ni, and that of Indonesian MHP cobalt is $49,252/mt Co. MHP payables (against SMM battery-grade nickel sulphate index) were 85.5-86.5, and the MHP cobalt payable (against SMM refined cobalt (Rotterdam warehouse)) was 93. The FOB price of Indonesian high-grade nickel matte is $15,820/mt Ni.

[SMM Tin Morning Brief: Dense Macro Event Window, Low Inventory Support Pattern Unchanged]