Aluminum Scrap Markets
October 20, 2026
Written by Stephanie Ritenbaugh
Steel Dynamics Inc. (SDI) shrank its operating losses from its aluminum operations as the flat-rolled mill in Columbus, Miss., continues to ramp up.
SDI, which operates Aluminum Dynamics Inc. (ADI), reported third-quarter 2026 operating losses from aluminum operations of $26 million, a 21% improvement over the second quarter.
Recycler forward views shifted toward undersupply in October even as Midwest Premium and UBC expectations moved lower.
Rio Tinto maintained third quarter aluminum production as its Arvida smelter transition continued, while the company delayed two capacity projects at the Quebec complex.
US aluminum scrap imports increased faster than exports through August, while similar tonnage gains kept net exports near year earlier levels.
The National Association of Wholesaler-Distributors (NAW) has filed a notice of appeal to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit, challenging the district court’s decision to uphold Oregon’s version of the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) laws that are popping up across the country.
