Chinese can sheet regains US share

Chinese beverage can sheet shipments to the US increased sharply during the first four months of 2026 and most of May, even as the market operated under a tariff structure and pricing environment that would seem to favor domestic supply or alternative import sources.

US imports of Chinese-origin beverage can sheet totaled roughly 23,7000 metric tons from January through May 28, more than double the 10,100 metric tons imported during the same period last year, according to the International Trade Administration’s US Aluminum Import Monitor. China’s share of total US beverage can sheet imports also increased, reaching 45% in May 2026 compared with 12% in May 2025.

Nicholas Bell

Nicholas brings over half a decade of experience covering metals markets, pricing trends, and supply chain dynamics. Prior to joining AMU, he reported on aluminum, high-temperature scrap, and ferro-alloy markets at Argus Media, with additional coverage of minor metals and rare earths. His work has built deep expertise in North American metals pricing and trade flows. A native of Houston, Nicholas holds a bachelor’s degree in Media Production and an MBA with a concentration in Finance, both from the University of Houston.