Currently, the aluminum industry is at a critical juncture of profound transformation and rapid development. From an industrial dynamics perspective, the global aluminum industry is actively responding to the call for green development, accelerating the transition to cleaner production. From an industrial status perspective, China holds a dominant position in the global aluminum supply chain. However, China's bauxite import dependency remains high. Against this backdrop, the US tariff policy has had a significant impact on the global aluminum industry. Facing the challenges posed by US tariffs, Chinese aluminum companies are actively seeking countermeasures. On one hand, they are accelerating their layout in the high-end aluminum semis sector, increasing R&D investment, and driving product transformation towards higher value-added products, such as aviation plates and power battery foils, whose exports are gradually increasing. On the other hand, they are vigorously developing the secondary aluminum industry, as the energy consumption of secondary aluminum is only 5% of that of primary aluminum, aligning with green development needs. Some companies are using transshipment trade through third countries like Malaysia and Thailand to reduce tariff costs. Others are actively applying for green certifications, reducing export costs through digital carbon management systems, and establishing hydropower aluminum bases in the southwest to increase the proportion of green electricity usage, thereby meeting international market demand for green aluminum products. From April 16-18, the AICE 2025 SMM (20th) Aluminum Industry Conference and Expo, hosted by SMM Information & Technology Co., Ltd., SMM Metal Trading Center, and Shandong Aisi Information Technology Co., Ltd., and co-organized by Zhongyifeng Jinyi (Suzhou) Technology Co., Ltd. and Lezhi County Qianrun Investment Service Co., Ltd., was grandly held at Halls E3-F3 of the Suzhou International Expo Center in Jiangsu, China! This summit will delve into and exchange views on hot topics such as the development trends of the global aluminum market, aluminum price forecasts, supply-demand balance, business opportunities, and technical exchanges. It will also explore how to drive the aluminum industry towards a cleaner, more efficient, and sustainable direction, jointly addressing global climate change and environmental challenges! The conference includes nine forums: the Alumina and Aluminum Raw Materials Forum, Aluminum Melting and Casting Technology Forum, Aluminum Die-Casting Industry Development Forum, Supply and Demand Exchange - Domestic and International Aluminum Scrap Supply and Demand Forum, Aluminum Plate/Sheet, Strip and Foil Industry Development Forum, Main Forum, Aluminum Industry Chain Sustainable Development Forum, Global Secondary Aluminum Industry Development Forum, and Industrial Aluminum Extrusion Forum. The event features guest speeches, SMM price assessment methodology workshops, roundtable discussions, a gala dinner, and an awards ceremony! On April 16, the Alumina and Aluminum Raw Materials Forum, Aluminum Melting and Casting Technology Forum, Aluminum Die-Casting Industry Development Forum, Supply and Demand Exchange - Domestic and International Aluminum Scrap Supply and Demand Forum, and Aluminum Plate/Sheet, Strip and Foil Industry Development Forum were held. Click here for insights into the global alumina, aluminum, and low-carbon aluminum market development outlook and new pathways for aluminum plate/sheet, strip, and foil enterprises, and here for the magnesium and aluminum die-casting substitution path, automotive development over the next decade, aluminum usage trends, and aluminum melting and casting technology sharing. This article is a live text broadcast of the Global Secondary Aluminum Industry Development Forum and the Industrial Aluminum Extrusion Forum. Additionally, SMM will provide live photo and video coverage. Please refresh to view! Click here to view the summit video live broadcast. Click here to view the summit photo live broadcast. Click here to view the summit text report. Guest Speeches April 18 Global Secondary Aluminum Industry Development Forum Speech Topic: Innovative International Cooperation in the New Era - Jointly Promoting High-Quality Development of the Global Secondary Aluminum Industry Guest Speaker: Wei Liu, Vice President of the Nonferrous Metals Industry Association Secondary Metals Branch Speech Topic: Risk Prevention and Control Strategies for Imported Secondary Aluminum Raw Materials as Solid Waste Guest Speaker: Bingyan Zhou, Senior Engineer at the Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences Roundtable Discussion: Market Business Models and Overseas Investment Opportunities in the Global Secondary Aluminum Industry Moderator: Xiaolei Liu, Big Data Director at SMM Panelists: Ting Liu, Deputy General Manager of Win-Win Metal Industries Co., Ltd. (US) Mingqiao Lin, Deputy Sales Director of Dazheng Metals (Holdings) Co., Ltd. Xingyao Wang, CEO of GLD Alloys (M) Sdn. Bhd. Speech Topic: ADC12 Futures - Investment Opportunities and Risks Guest Speaker: Rong Wang, Assistant Director and Chief Researcher at Guotai Junan Futures Research Institute Speech Topic: Interpretation of Mexico's Secondary Metal Export Policies Guest Speaker: Wenceslao Manzano Hernandez, President of Dimexa Holdings Pte. Ltd. Speech Topic: 2025 China Secondary Aluminum Market Analysis and Price Assessment Methodology Guest Speaker: Limin Zhang, Senior Analyst of Secondary Aluminum at SMM Industrial Aluminum Extrusion Forum Speech Topic: Analysis of the Chinese Industrial Aluminum Extrusion Market Guest Speaker: Kexin Yao, Senior Analyst of Aluminum Products at SMM Speech Topic: Market Development and Future Trends of PV Frames Guest Speaker: Wei Sun, Vice President of Yongzhen Green Energy Materials Research Institute (Changzhou) Co., Ltd. Speech Topic: Aluminum Processing Empowers Three-Electric Products to Drive Technological Innovation Guest Speaker: Ruiping Man, Product Research and Planning Director at Liaoning Xiangyu Aluminum Co., Ltd. Speech Topic: Development and Application of High-Strength Aluminum Alloys in Consumer Electronics Guest Speaker: Xinwen Huang, Ph.D. in Metal Materials Science at Haisifengbo Technology (Shanghai) Co., Ltd. Speech Topic: Introduction to High-Performance Extruded Aluminum Passive Safety Components for NEVs Guest Speaker: Hui Zhao, Ph.D. at Guangdong Haomei New Materials Co., Ltd. Speech Topic: Applications of Aluminum Matrix Composites in Aerospace Guest Speaker: Lin Geng, Professor and Doctoral Supervisor at the School of Materials Science and Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology Speech Topic: Engineering Applications of Light Alloys in Rail Transit Vehicles Guest Speaker: Huaqiang Lin, Senior Principal Researcher at the Materials Research Office of the National High-Speed EMU Integration Engineering Center, CRRC Qingdao Sifang Co., Ltd. (11:30-11:55) Click here to view the AICE 2025 SMM (20th) Aluminum Industry Conference and Expo special report.

Currently, the aluminum industry is at a critical juncture of profound transformation and rapid development. From an industrial dynamics perspective, the global aluminum industry is actively responding to the call for green development, accelerating the transition to cleaner production. From an industrial status perspective, China holds a dominant position in the global aluminum supply chain. However, China's dependence on bauxite imports remains high. Against this backdrop, US tariff policies have had a significant impact on the global aluminum industry. Facing the challenges posed by US tariffs, Chinese aluminum companies are actively seeking countermeasures. On one hand, they are accelerating their layout in the high-end aluminum sector, increasing R&D investment, and driving product transformation towards higher value-added products, such as aviation plates and power battery foils, whose exports are gradually increasing. On the other hand, they are vigorously developing the secondary aluminum industry, as the energy consumption of secondary aluminum is only 5% of that of primary aluminum, aligning with green development needs. Some companies are using transshipment trade through third countries like Malaysia and Thailand to reduce tariff costs. Others are actively applying for green certifications, reducing export costs through digital carbon management systems, and establishing hydropower aluminum bases in the southwest to increase the proportion of green electricity usage, thereby meeting international market demand for green aluminum products. From April 16-18, the AICE 2025 SMM (20th) Aluminum Industry Conference and Aluminum Industry Expo, hosted by SMM Information & Technology Co., Ltd., SMM Metal Trading Center, and Shandong Aisi Information Technology Co., Ltd., and co-organized by Zhongyifeng Jinyi (Suzhou) Technology Co., Ltd. and Lezhi County Qianrun Investment Service Co., Ltd., was grandly held at Halls E3-F3 of the Suzhou International Expo Center in Jiangsu, Suzhou! This summit will delve into and exchange views on hot topics such as the development trends of the global aluminum market, aluminum price forecasts, supply-demand balance, business opportunities, and technical exchanges. At the same time, it will explore how to drive the aluminum industry towards a cleaner, more efficient, and sustainable direction, jointly addressing global climate change and environmental challenges! The conference includes nine forums: the Alumina and Aluminum Raw Materials Forum, Aluminum Melting and Casting Technology Forum, Aluminum Die Casting Industry Development Forum, Supply and Demand Exchange - Domestic and Foreign Aluminum Scrap Supply and Demand Speech Forum, Aluminum Plate/Sheet, Strip and Foil Industry Development Forum, Main Forum, Aluminum Industry Chain Sustainable Development Forum, Global Secondary Aluminum Industry Development Forum, and Industrial Aluminum Extrusion Forum. The conference also features guest speeches, SMM Price Seminars, roundtable forums, conference dinners, and award ceremonies! This article is a live text broadcast of the Aluminum Melting and Casting Technology Forum and the Aluminum Die Casting Industry Development Forum. Additionally, SMM will also provide live photo and video broadcasts. Please refresh to view~ Click to view the summit's live video broadcast Click to view the summit's live photo broadcast View the summit's text report April 16 Conference Registration & Networking Aluminum Melting and Casting Technology Forum Speech Topic: Research on Cracking Behavior of Super-Sized 2024 Aluminum Alloy Flat Ingots Guest Speaker: Chief Expert and Secretary General of the Advanced Aluminum Alloy Collaborative Innovation Alliance, Chalco Group (09:00-09:30) Speech Topic: Common Knowledge of Melting and Casting Guest Speaker: Li Lei, General Manager of Shangli County Keyuan Metallurgical Materials Co., Ltd. (09:30-10:00) Speech Topic: Thoughts on the Development of Melting and Casting Technology in the Secondary Aluminum Industry Guest Speaker: Professor Zhang Bolin, Nanchang University (10:00-10:30) Speech Topic: Causes and Prevention of Aluminum and Aluminum Alloy Semi-Continuous (Deep Well) Casting Molten Aluminum Water Explosion Accidents Guest Speaker: Zhou Yingquan, Senior Engineer and Resident Expert of Suzhou Emergency Management Bureau (10:30-11:00) Speech Topic: Research and Application of High-Efficiency Dust Removal and Energy-Saving Systems in the Aluminum Industry Guest Speaker: Ni Yongchun, Chairman of Zhejiang Lanwei Environmental Technology Equipment Co., Ltd. (11:00-11:30) Speech Topic: Common Problems and Solutions in Metal Liquid Refining Treatment in Aluminum Melting and Casting Guest Speaker: Xue Yueteng, China Product Line Manager - Non-Ferrous Metal Liquid Treatment, Vesuvius Foundry Technology (Jiangsu) Co., Ltd. (13:30-14:00) Speech Topic: Safety Hazards in Aluminum Processing and Dual Prevention Mechanisms Guest Speaker: Ying Zhiqiang, Certified Expert of China Nonferrous Metals Think Tank, Chief Engineer and Senior Engineer of Anhui Guangsheng Meichen New Materials Technology Co., Ltd. (14:00-14:30) Speech Topic: Technical Challenges and Solutions for Lining of Different Types of Secondary Aluminum Dual-Chamber Furnaces - Promoting Green and Efficient Industry Development Guest Speaker: Song Xuebin, Chairman and President of the Enterprise Research Institute, Jiangsu Ruifuda High-Temperature New Materials Co., Ltd. (14:20-14:50) Speech Topic: Innovation and Application of Short Process Technology in Aluminum Processing Guest Speaker: He Xiangwen, Chief Engineer of the Process Department, China Nonferrous Metals Processing Technology Co., Ltd. (15:00-15:30) Speech Topic: Production Practices in the Melting, Casting, and Homogenization Process of 3003 Alloy Guest Speaker: Lu Jianjun, Chief Engineer of Shaanxi Xincai Disu Technology Co., Ltd. (15:30-16:00) Aluminum Die Casting Industry Development Forum Speech Topic: Exploration of Integrated Die Casting Process under Industry-University-Research Cooperation Guest Speaker: Han Jiantang, Project Director of Shandong Hongcan Materials Technology Co., Ltd. (09:30-10:00) Speech Topic: Complementarity and Application of Aluminum Alloy Integrated Die Casting and Magnesium Semi-Solid Die Casting Guest Speaker: Zhou Lianjun, Senior Application Expert of Ningbo Free Trade Zone Haitian Zhisheng Metal Forming Equipment Co., Ltd. (10:00-10:30) Roundtable Discussion: New Models of Integrated Die Casting Cooperation from a Supply Chain Perspective Moderator: Zhang Shangen, Executive President of Suzhou Die Casting Association Interviewees: Chongqing Yujiang Die Casting Co., Ltd. Liu Huachu, Metal Materials Expert of NIO Zhang Yuebo, Technical Vice President of CSMET Group (10:30-11:30) Speech Topic: The Development of China's New Energy Vehicles and Traditional Internal Combustion Engine Vehicles in the Next Decade and Aluminum Usage Trends Guest Speaker: Cui Dongshu, Secretary General of the China Automobile Dealers Association Automobile Market Research Branch (13:30-14:00) Speech Topic: Difficulties and Solutions in the Die Casting Process of New Energy Vehicle Electric Drive Housings Guest Speaker: Peng Liang, Lightweight Process Manager/Senior Engineer of Schaeffler (Shanghai) Trading Co., Ltd. (14:00-14:30) Roundtable Discussion: The Path to Replacing Magnesium Die Casting with Aluminum Die Casting Interviewees: Qin Xianyue, Technical Director of Baowu Magnesium Products Division, Deputy General Manager of Chongqing Boao Zhang Xiaoyan, Chairman of Ningbo Tianzheng Mould Co., Ltd. (14:30-15:30) Speech Topic: Comparison and Pros and Cons of Low-Pressure Casting and High-Pressure Die Casting Processes Guest Speaker: Zhu Wenping, Global Aluminum Alloy Casting Expert, Special Expert/Director, and Senior Die Casting Engineer Certification Training Instructor of Eaton (China) Investment Co., Ltd. (15:30-16:00) Click to view the AICE 2025 SMM (20th) Aluminum Industry Conference and Aluminum Industry Expo Special Report

Currently, the aluminum industry is at a critical juncture of profound transformation and rapid development. From an industrial dynamics perspective, the global aluminum industry is actively responding to the call for green development, accelerating the transition to cleaner production. From an industrial status perspective, China dominates the global aluminum supply chain. However, China's dependence on bauxite imports remains high. Against this backdrop, US tariff policies have had a significant impact on the global aluminum industry. Facing the challenges posed by US tariffs, Chinese aluminum companies are actively seeking countermeasures. On one hand, they are accelerating their layout in the high-end aluminum sector, increasing R&D investment, and driving product transformation towards higher value-added products, such as aviation plates and power battery foils, whose exports are gradually increasing. On the other hand, they are vigorously developing the secondary aluminum industry, as the energy consumption of secondary aluminum is only 5% of that of primary aluminum, aligning with green development needs. Some companies are using transshipment trade through third countries like Malaysia and Thailand to reduce tariff costs. Others are actively applying for green certifications, reducing export costs through digital carbon management systems, and establishing hydropower aluminum bases in the southwest to increase the proportion of green electricity usage, thereby meeting international market demand for green aluminum products. From April 16-18, the AICE 2025 SMM (20th) Aluminum Industry Conference and Expo, hosted by SMM Information & Technology Co., Ltd., SMM Metal Trading Center, and Shandong Aisi Information Technology Co., Ltd., and co-organized by Zhongyifeng Jinyi (Suzhou) Technology Co., Ltd. and Lezhi Qianrun Investment Service Co., Ltd., was grandly held at the E3-F3 Hall of the Suzhou International Expo Center in Jiangsu! This summit will delve into and exchange views on hot topics such as the development trends of the global aluminum market, aluminum price forecasts, supply-demand balance, and business opportunities and technical exchanges. At the same time, it will explore how to promote the aluminum industry towards a cleaner, more efficient, and sustainable direction, jointly addressing global climate change and environmental challenges! This conference includes nine forums: the Alumina and Aluminum Raw Materials Forum, Aluminum Melting and Casting Technology Forum, Aluminum Die-Casting Industry Development Forum, Supply-Demand Exchange - Domestic and International Aluminum Scrap Supply-Demand Forum, Aluminum Plate/Sheet, Strip and Foil Industry Development Forum, Main Forum, Aluminum Industry Chain Sustainable Development Forum, Global Secondary Aluminum Industry Development Forum, and Industrial Aluminum Extrusion Forum. The conference also features guest speeches, SMM Price Seminar, roundtable discussions, conference dinner & awards ceremony, and other exciting segments! This article is a live text broadcast of the Alumina and Aluminum Raw Materials Forum, Supply-Demand Exchange - Domestic and International Aluminum Scrap Supply-Demand Forum, and Aluminum Plate/Sheet, Strip and Foil Industry Development Forum. Additionally, SMM will also provide live photo and video broadcasts. Please refresh to view~ Click to view the summit video live broadcast Click to view the summit photo live broadcast View the summit text report April 16 Conference Registration & Networking Alumina and Aluminum Raw Materials Forum Speech Topic: Introduction to Metro Mining, Potential Impact of Indonesia's New Alumina Production on China's Alumina Guest Speaker: Long Ding, General Manager of Asia Market Department, Metro Mining Ltd., Australia (09:00-09:25) Speech Topic: 2024 Global Alumina Market Price Review and 2025 Trends Guest Speaker: Mingxin Guo, Senior Bauxite Analyst, SMM (09:25-09:50) Speech Topic: How the Aluminum Industry Can Achieve Energy Saving and Carbon Reduction Through Technological Innovation Guest Speaker: Xuemin Liang, Distinguished Professor of Zhengzhou University, Leader of Aluminum Metallurgy Discipline, Executive Director (09:50-10:15) Speech Topic: How New Energy Enterprises Can Promote Green Electricity and Low-Carbon Transformation Guest Speaker: Kang Yi, Director of Industrial and Commercial ESS Solutions, Integrated Energy Business Department, CRRC Zhuzhou Electric Locomotive Research Institute Co., Ltd. (10:15-10:40) Speech Topic: Comprehensive Energy-Saving Solutions for Fluid Delivery Systems in the Aluminum Industry Guest Speaker: Yuhong Liu, Senior Solutions Expert, Shanghai Ruichen Environmental Technology Co., Ltd. (10:40-11:05) Roundtable Discussion: Green Transformation of the Aluminum Industry - Development and Prospects of the Low-Carbon Aluminum Market Moderator: Yanchen Wang, General Manager of SMM London Office Panelists: Yi Sun, Deputy Chief Engineer, Shenyang Aluminum & Magnesium Engineering & Research Institute Co., Ltd. Jie Meng, Senior Expert, Aluminum Branch, China Nonferrous Metals Industry Association Dahai Meng, Head of Environmental Protection and Materials, NIO Bensong Chen, Chief Engineer (Aluminum), Yunnan Aluminum Co., Ltd. (11:05-12:00) Speech Topic: Research on Aluminum Price Changes in 2025 Under Green Transformation Guest Speaker: Jinyu Lin, Aluminum Industry Researcher, SPIC Aluminum Industry International Trade Co., Ltd. (13:30-14:20) Speech Topic: Optimization of Domestic Prebaked Anode Supply Structure and Demand Growth Forecast Guest Speaker: Wanting Wang, Market Analyst, Sunstone Development Co., Ltd. (14:20-14:50) Speech Topic: Graphitized Cathode Technology and Market Development Trends Guest Speaker: Zhaoyang Wang, General Manager, Luoyang Wanji Carbon Co., Ltd. (14:50-15:20) Speech Topic: How to Achieve Sustainable Development and Enhance Corporate Competitiveness Through ASI Certification Guest Speaker: Chu Zhou, Senior Technical Manager, Green and Low-Carbon Development Center, Zhongbiao Hexin (Beijing) Certification Co., Ltd. (15:20-15:30) Speech Topic: Supply-Demand Imbalance, Analysis of Calcined Coke Market Trends Guest Speaker: Zuoyou Wang, General Manager, Jining Jitan Import & Export Co., Ltd. (15:30-16:00) Speech Topic: Current Status of Domestic Petroleum Coke and Import Trend Analysis Guest Speaker: Huimin Liu, Senior Analyst of Aluminum Auxiliary Materials, SMM (09:00-09:25) Supply-Demand Exchange - Domestic and International Aluminum Scrap Supply-Demand Forum (09:00-12:00) Aluminum Plate/Sheet, Strip and Foil Industry Development Forum Speech Topic: Analysis of the Competitive Landscape and Hot Topics in China's Aluminum Plate/Sheet, Strip and Foil Industry Guest Speaker: Yuting Zhang, Senior Manager, SMM Consulting Division (13:30-14:00) Speech Topic: Rolling Process and Performance Challenges of Ultra-Thin Lithium Battery Aluminum Foil (≤10μm) Guest Speaker: Qian Wen, R&D Engineer, North China Aluminum New Material Technology Co., Ltd. (14:00-14:30) Speech Topic: Development Opportunities and Technical Requirements of Aluminum Alloy Automotive Plates Under Carbon Reduction Background Guest Speaker: Zhenshan Liu, Deputy General Manager, Chalco Materials Application Research Institute (14:30-15:00) Roundtable Discussion: Internal and External Challenges - Exploring New Paths for Aluminum Plate/Sheet, Strip and Foil Enterprises in the Mist Moderator: Bai Zhou, Executive Vice President, SMM Panelists: Wenjun Wu, Vice Chairman and General Manager, Wanji Holding Group Weixin Chen, Board Secretary, Jiangsu Dingsheng New Energy Materials Co., Ltd. Bingxu Ji, Chairman, Luoyang Longding Aluminum Co., Ltd. Zhigang He, Deputy General Manager, Henan Mingtai Aluminum Co., Ltd. (15:00-16:00) Speech Topic: Innovation-Driven: The Impact of Smart Factory Transformation on Plate/Sheet, Strip and Foil Enterprises Guest Speaker: Zengbing Fang, Deputy General Manager, Hefei Jingsong Intelligent Technology Co., Ltd. (16:00-16:30) Speech Topic: New Journey, New Breakthrough - Gränges Asia's Innovation Path in Medium-Thickness Plates Guest Speaker: Fenghua Gao, Senior R&D Engineer, Gränges Aluminum (Shanghai) Co., Ltd. (16:30-17:00) Click to view the AICE 2025 SMM (20th) Aluminum Industry Conference and Expo special report

On Tuesday, April 15, Citi predicted that the decline in copper prices would slow over the next three months, noting that copper scrap supply remains tight due to US tariff policy adjustments and stockpiling. Citi added in a report, "All signs indicate that copper prices will decline at a slower pace by Q2 2025, while we previously expected larger and faster investor sell-offs, and funds still hold net long positions." The bank raised its three-month copper price forecast to $8,800 per mt. Previously, after the US announced tariff hikes, the bank had lowered its copper price forecast to $8,000 per mt. The bank expects the average copper price in Q2 to be $9,000 per mt. Citi stated that US tariff policies have slowed physical copper consumption and manufacturing activities, and therefore remains bearish over the next three to six months. The bank said, "We are uncertain how far copper prices will fall, but our view remains to wait for the situation to improve before buying." Citi also raised its Q2 aluminum price forecast from $2,200 per mt to $2,300 per mt, with an average price of $2,400 per mt. To learn more about the dynamics of the copper industry chain, you are welcome to attend the CCIE 2025 SMM (20th) Copper Conference and Copper Industry Expo, hosted by SMM, which will be grandly held in Nanchang, Jiangxi from April 22-25, 2025. Over 3,000 industry elites, representatives from upstream and downstream enterprises of the copper industry chain, government leaders, industry associations, third-party equipment, logistics and warehousing, and academic experts will gather together. The conference covers mines, smelting, copper processing, trade, recycling, and end-use applications, encompassing the entire copper industry chain. At the event, more than 100 exhibitors will showcase the latest copper processing and smelting equipment, high-quality raw material suppliers, and new-type copper-based materials, highlighting the innovation and vitality of the copper industry. The conference features a variety of exciting activities: the main forum focuses on global copper market trends, raw material supply, policy impacts, and market direction. Sub-forums delve into industry hot topics such as electrical power transmission and distribution, secondary copper, copper-based new materials, hardware and plumbing, and ESS. During the conference, a two-day field trip will visit 12 representative enterprises in the copper industry with a cumulative capacity of 1 million mt, sharing cutting-edge technologies and valuable experiences to upgrade the copper industry chain and promote high-quality industry development. The CCIE 2025 SMM (20th) Copper Conference and Copper Industry Expo will help you grasp industry trends, expand your network, and seek business opportunities! SMM cordially invites you to gather in Nanchang, Jiangxi from April 22-25, to unite in the new era and jointly plan for new development!

On Tuesday, April 15, Citigroup stated in a report that it raised its 0-3 month aluminum price forecast from $2,200/mt to $2,300/mt, and its 0-3 month copper price forecast from $8,000/mt to $8,800/mt.

On Monday, April 14, Goldman Sachs stated in a report that it lowered its aluminum price forecast for this year, as its economists revised down the economic growth projections for major global economies, including the US. The report expects aluminum prices to reach $2,300/mt by December, down from the previous forecast of $2,650/mt. By Q3 of this year, aluminum prices are expected to drop to an average of $2,000/mt. On Monday, the LME three-month aluminum price was approximately $2,392/mt. Goldman Sachs also predicts that the global aluminum market will experience a supply surplus of 580,000 mt this year, compared to its previous forecast of a shortage of 76,000 mt. By December 2026, aluminum prices are expected to reach $2,720/mt, lower than the previous forecast of $3,100/mt. The average aluminum price in 2027 is projected to be $2,800/mt, with the market expected to face a supply surplus of 722,000 mt. The investment bank also noted that global aluminum demand growth rates for this year and next are expected to be 1.1% and 2.3%, respectively, compared to its previous estimates of 2.6% and 2.4%.

Pengxin Resources' stock price surged on April 10, hitting the daily limit multiple times during the session. As of 11:08 AM on April 10, Pengxin Resources rose 9.62% to 3.76 yuan per share. On the news front, Pengxin Resources disclosed its Q1 2025 earnings forecast on the evening of April 9: preliminary estimates by the finance department indicate that the company expects to achieve a net profit attributable to the parent company's owners of 100 million to 130 million yuan, an increase of 71.9033 million to 101.9033 million yuan compared to the same period last year. The company also expects to achieve a net profit attributable to the parent company's owners after deducting non-recurring gains and losses of 102 million to 132 million yuan, an increase of 113.3336 million to 143.3336 million yuan compared to the same period last year. Regarding the reasons for the expected profit, Pengxin Resources stated: During the reporting period, the company's production and sales of products such as copper cathode increased, and the price of cobalt hydroxide rebounded, leading to the reversal of impairment provisions on existing cobalt hydroxide inventory from previous years. Pengxin Resources previously disclosed its 2024 earnings forecast, which showed an expected net loss attributable to the parent company's owners of 85 million to 125 million yuan, compared to a loss of 108 million yuan in the same period last year. The net loss after deducting non-recurring gains and losses is expected to be 146 million to 186 million yuan, compared to a loss of 113 million yuan in the same period last year. Regarding the main reasons for the expected loss, Pengxin Resources stated: In 2024, the company's loss was mainly due to the impact of its operations in the DRC, with the primary reasons as follows: 1. Due to insufficient ore supply in the DRC in H1 and local power rationing, the production and sales of copper cathode decreased, leading to a reduction in gross profit. Ore supply returned to normal in H2. 2. To alleviate the shortage of copper ore supply, the production line utilized some of the company's own low-grade, high-calcium ore, resulting in increased consumption of self-produced sulfuric acid for copper cathode production and reduced sales of sulfuric acid. Additionally, due to intensified market competition, the selling price of sulfuric acid decreased, leading to a reduction in gross profit from sulfuric acid sales. 3. Due to the fluctuating decline in the market price of cobalt hydroxide, the company made corresponding impairment provisions on related inventory. Data shows that Pengxin Resources' main business is the exploration, mining, smelting, and processing of metal resources such as gold, copper, cobalt, and other metal minerals, as well as related product sales. Regarding the future of copper prices, many institutions have recently shared their views: UBS analysts provided insights into the potential trajectory of copper prices, noting that prices may temporarily drop to $8,000/mt, echoing historical patterns where prices fell about 25% to 30% from their 12-month peak. Despite an increase in speculative long positions on the LME, with net long positions rising by 45,600 lots since the beginning of the year, UBS expects any pullback in copper prices to be short-lived. The bank highlighted several factors supporting copper prices recently. One of these is the expectation of more accommodative global monetary policies, with the US Fed expected to cut interest rates to counter slowing economic growth and boost asset prices. UBS also noted that supply-side challenges are expected to persist in the short term, which should push prices higher, thereby encouraging investment in mine supply capacity. This outlook takes into account the possibility of increased stimulus measures and current supply dynamics. Goldman Sachs expects copper prices to fall to a monthly average low of $8,300/mt in Q3 2025, forecasting a global copper market surplus of 100,000 mt (previously a deficit of 180,000 mt). Citi revised its 2025 nickel price forecast down to $15,500/mt from $16,000/mt, its 2025 zinc price forecast down to $2,630/mt from $2,750/mt, its 2025 aluminum price forecast down to $2,480/mt from $2,615/mt, and its 2025 copper price forecast down to $8,860/mt from $9,100/mt.

On Monday, April 7, Bank of America warned that due to ongoing trade tensions, volatility in the metal markets has intensified, leading to a downward revision of its 2025 price forecasts for copper and aluminum. The bank also highlighted uncertainties surrounding US tariffs and global policy responses. Strategists at Bank of America wrote in a report that with changing rules, volatility dominates. They believe that volatility will intensify as tariff and trade policy actions, along with reactions to these actions, take effect. The bank lowered its 2025 copper price forecast by 6% to $8,867 per mt ($4.02/lb) and also revised down its aluminum price forecast, citing demand risks from slowing global economic growth and potential US dollar strength. The coal price forecast was also reduced, while the iron ore price forecast was slightly raised due to improved fundamentals. Meanwhile, Bank of America recently raised its gold price forecast, supported by macroeconomic uncertainties and investor risk aversion. Uncertainties are unfavorable for global competitive growth, including in the US, and may negatively impact metal prices, the bank stated. "We believe tariffs are detrimental to consumers and industries," the bank added. Although deregulation and tax cuts may support US economic growth, Bank of America noted that these measures are unlikely to fully offset the loss of global demand. To learn more about the dynamics of the copper industry chain, you are invited to attend the CCIE 2025 SMM (20th) Copper Industry Conference and Copper Industry Expo, hosted by SMM, which will be held grandly in Nanchang, Jiangxi from April 22-25, 2025. Over 3,000 industry elites, representatives from upstream and downstream enterprises in the copper industry chain, government officials, industry associations, third-party equipment, logistics and warehousing, as well as experts from universities and research institutions will gather together. The conference covers mines, smelting, copper processing, trade, recycling, and end-use applications, encompassing the entire copper industry chain. At the conference, more than 100 exhibitors will showcase the latest copper processing and smelting equipment, high-quality raw material suppliers, and new-type copper-based materials, highlighting the innovation and vitality of the copper industry. The conference features a variety of exciting activities: the main forum focuses on global copper market trends, raw material supply, policy impact analysis, and market direction interpretation. Sub-forums delve into industry hot topics such as electrical power transmission and distribution, secondary copper, copper-based new materials, hardware and plumbing, and ESS. During the conference, a two-day field trip will visit 12 representative enterprises in the copper industry with a cumulative capacity of 1 million mt, sharing cutting-edge technologies and valuable experiences to help upgrade the copper industry chain and promote high-quality industry development. The CCIE 2025 SMM (20th) Copper Industry Conference and Copper Industry Expo will help you grasp industry trends, expand your network, and seek business opportunities! SMM cordially invites you to gather in Nanchang, Jiangxi from April 22-25, to unite in the new era and jointly plan for new development!

On Monday, April 7, Citi Research lowered its 0-3 month Brent crude oil price forecast to $60/barrel, and reduced its 0-3 month copper and aluminum price forecasts to $8,000/mt and $2,200/mt, respectively. Citi analysts stated in a report: "These targets are entirely achievable within the next week, and if not, they are highly likely to be achieved within the next three months." The bank noted in the report that the actual impact of tariff imposition should be doubly bearish, as pre-purchasing and stockpiling of goods and commodities will completely reverse after the tightening of the commodity market in recent months. Citi analysts said in a report: "We believe any rebound triggered by trade agreement headlines or the delayed implementation of tariffs on April 9 this week will provide an opportunity to sell on strength." They added: "US natural gas and gold should outperform in the short term." To learn more about the dynamics of the copper industry chain, you are welcome to attend the CCIE 2025 SMM (20th) Copper Conference and Copper Industry Expo, hosted by SMM, which will be grandly held in Nanchang, Jiangxi from April 22-25, 2025. ~ Over 3,000 industry elites, representatives from upstream and downstream enterprises of the copper industry chain, government officials, industry associations, third-party equipment, logistics and warehousing, as well as experts from universities and research institutions will gather together. The conference covers mines, smelting, copper processing, trade, recycling, and end-use applications, encompassing the entire copper industry chain. At the event, more than 100 exhibitors will showcase the latest copper processing and smelting equipment, high-quality raw material suppliers, and new-type copper-based materials, highlighting the innovation and vitality of the copper industry. The conference features a variety of exciting activities: the main forum focuses on global copper market trends, raw material supply, policy impact analysis, and market direction interpretation. Sub-forums delve into industry hot topics such as electrical power transmission and distribution, secondary copper, copper-based new materials, hardware and plumbing, and ESS. During the conference, a two-day field trip will visit 12 representative enterprises with a cumulative capacity of 1 million mt in the copper industry. Sharing cutting-edge technologies and valuable experiences will help upgrade the copper industry chain and promote high-quality industry development. The CCIE 2025 SMM (20th) Copper Conference and Copper Industry Expo will help you grasp industry trends, expand your network, and seek business opportunities! SMM cordially invites you to gather in Nanchang, Jiangxi from April 22-25, to unite in the new era and jointly plan for new development!

Citigroup revised its price forecasts for 0-3 month copper and aluminum to $8,000/mt and $2,200/mt, respectively.