China’s metal exports, particularly aluminum, are benefiting from the Middle
East conflict, which has disrupted regional supply and boosted demand for
clean-tech materials amid higher fossil fuel prices. Shipments of aluminum
products from China are expected to reach record levels this year, according to
the China Nonferrous Metals Industry Association. Copper demand is also
supported by clean-energy applications. The war involving the US, Israel and
Iran has affected commodities markets, with disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz
and strikes on Gulf aluminum smelters reducing global supply and pushing prices
to multi-year highs.
