Global Trade

January 10, 2025
Week In Review- The importance of aluminum to the global economy
Written by Gabriella Vagnini
This week showed just how important aluminum is to the U.S. and global economy. Talks about new Trump tariffs are focusing on protecting American manufacturers from unfair competition, especially from China, while building stronger partnerships with allies like Canada. The goal is to ramp up domestic production and recycling, invest in infrastructure, and secure affordable energy for aluminum smelters. These steps aim to create jobs, reduce reliance on foreign materials, and keep aluminum a key part of our economy, national security, and innovation.
Demand for aluminum is picking up, with North American numbers up 4.6%, thanks to higher exports and fewer imports. Here at home, investments in recycling and production are stepping up. Recovery is adding a new furnace in Alabama, and Golden Aluminum is building a low-carbon mini mill in Colorado. At the same time, ARZYZ Aluminum in Mexico is expanding its capacity and scrap processing, which could shift trade dynamics, especially with U.S. tariffs and taxes in play.


