US Aluminium Imports Surge in Q1 2025 – UAE Emerges as Key Supplier

Published by: ALUTimes | Date: July 7, 2025

Introduction

The first quarter of 2025 witnessed a significant spike in aluminium imports to the United States, driven by anticipatory buying in response to newly imposed tariffs. With a 20% quarter-over-quarter increase and a 17.65% rise compared to the same period last year, this surge has reshaped aluminium trade dynamics—particularly with the United Arab Emirates emerging as a dominant supplier.

Tariffs Drive Urgent Stockpiling

Following the U.S. administration’s announcement on February 10 regarding new aluminium tariffs effective March 12, importers accelerated their buying activities. March alone saw a 35% increase in aluminium imports, climbing from 459,000 tonnes in February to 619,000 tonnes in March. Overall, Q1 2025 recorded 1.6 million tonnes in imports.

Canada and UAE Lead the Supply Surge

Canada retained its lead with 309,000 tonnes of aluminium exported to the U.S. in March—up 19.77% from February. However, the UAE made headlines by shipping 95,900 tonnes in March, up from just 29,500 tonnes in February. This contributed to a quarterly total of 173,000 tonnes, marking a 124% increase from the previous quarter.

Global Contributors to the Import Rise

Other nations also increased their exports to the U.S.: Mexico (13.6%), South Korea (26.9%), and India (41.6%). Primary aluminium and alloys led the import categories, with a 25% increase to 1.07 million tonnes, followed by scrap (13%) and semi-finished products like plates and bars (11%).

The UAE’s Growing Role in U.S. Aluminium Supply

In Q1 2025, the UAE ranked second only to Canada in supplying primary aluminium and alloys to the U.S., accounting for 16% of total imports. The Gulf nation, known for its low-carbon aluminium and export-oriented smelting, produces approximately 2.7 million tonnes of aluminium annually—90% of which is exported.

A Strategic Economic Alignment

The aluminium trade is part of a broader U.S.-UAE economic relationship. In 2024, bilateral trade reached $34.4 billion, with U.S. exports making up $26.9 billion—an 8.5% year-over-year increase. The trade surplus of $19.5 billion supported over 161,000 American jobs. In March 2025, the UAE also announced a $1.4 trillion investment plan in the U.S. over the next decade, including significant investments in the aluminium sector.

What Lies Ahead: Negotiations & Tariff Implications

With a new 50% tariff looming over aluminium imports, the U.S. and UAE have begun bilateral trade negotiations that may shape the future of this growing trade route. A favorable outcome could provide exemptions or relaxed policies, while failure to reach an agreement might disrupt this crucial supply channel.

Conclusion

The Q1 2025 surge in U.S. aluminium imports underscores a rapidly shifting global trade landscape. The UAE’s rising prominence in the aluminium supply chain marks a new chapter in international trade, backed by strategic investments and diplomatic ties. As negotiations progress, all eyes will be on whether this momentum continues or stalls in the face of policy changes.

Disclaimer

This article is based on market data and trade reports as of Q1 2025. All figures are approximations and subject to revision. ALUTimes does not endorse or support any specific trade policy or government decision.