Domestic aluminum demand up through Q3 2024

The Aluminum Association, Arlington, Virginia, has released preliminary estimates showing demand for the aluminum industry in North America (U.S. and Canada) increased 4.6 percent through the first three quarters of 2024.

The association’s “Aluminum Situation” report found that aluminum demand in the U.S. and Canada (shipments by domestic producers plus imports) totaled an estimated 20,712 million pounds through the third quarter of 2024 compared with 19,798 million pounds in the comparable quarter of 2023. Sheet and plate products saw the most year-over-year growth at 6.9 percent, while foil, extrusions and electrical products showed declines.

Semifabricated, or “mill,” product demand was up 2.5 percent year-over-year through the third quarter, and imported aluminum and aluminum products decreased 8 percent over the period. Aluminum exports (excluding scrap) to foreign countries increased 23.3 percent in the third quarter.

At 107.13, the association’s Index of Net New Orders of Aluminum Mill Products (baseline index of 100) increased 1.2 percent over 2023’s figure through November.

“This continued demand growth reflects the aluminum industry’s strength and ability to compete in a dynamic marketplace,” says Charles Johnson, president and CEO of the Aluminum Association. “While there may be some uncertainty ahead, aluminum will continue to be a critical material used to build a stronger, more sustainable America, and the industry stands ready to deliver.”