Aluminum Association bemoans China's removing aluminum duties

The Aluminum Association, Arlington, Virginia, has expressed disappointment in China’s Ministry of Finance’s decision to eliminate the 15 percent export duty imposed on aluminum rods and bars, alloyed and nonalloyed, as well as certain primary alloys.

In a statement, the association, which represents U.S. and foreign-based companies and their supplies throughout the value chain, says the elimination of the export duties is “inconsistent with China's policy to discourage exports of energy-intensive products, a key element of the country's new normal that puts emphasis on sustainable, quality growth. The association also says it sees the change as having the potential to encourage unfair trade practices in the aluminum industry.

“We urge the Chinese government to maintain global trade practices and policies that ensure a level playing field so that all aluminum producers can compete fairly. The Aluminum Association will continue to monitor developments on this matter.”