Aluminum Market Weekly Update: Tariff Tensions, Global Shifts & Market Opportunities

The aluminum market trend of the last week, based on the morning official Lowest LME and the Midwest Premium, represented by the Midwest Transaction Price. (Significant fluctuations during day trading are reflected.)

We’re kicking off the week with a bit of a dip across the aluminum market. Here's where we stand:

LME Aluminum is down over 8 cents from last Monday, now sitting at $1.06.
The Aluminum Midwest Premium (MWP) is down 70 points from Friday, but still up 10 points from last Monday, now at $0.3815.
The Midwest Transaction Price (MWTP) has followed suit, down just over 8 cents from last week, currently at $1.4415.

Given this trend, it's smart to take advantage of the dip now rather than wait for a rebound. The market might shift again, but waiting could cost more than acting now.

Market Movers: What’s Behind the Dip?

A few major factors have played into this week's pricing:

1. Tariff Tsunami

President Trump rolled out a smorgasbord of tariffs last week, sending the stock markets tumbling 3–4% on consecutive days. Among those tariffs? Aluminum and steel commodities—still mostly aligned with the CBP’s original list—but now including empty beer cans and aluminum beverage cans. That’s right: expect your favorite canned beverages to inch up in cost.

Quick note for those handling scrap: UBCs (Used Beverage Cans) are not affected—but be very cautious with how you classify material under HTS codes. If you're unsure, well, you know who to call—just sell them to me, and I’ll handle the paperwork.

2. Shifting Global Trade Tides

Uncertainty around U.S. trade policy is pushing more countries, especially in Europe, to shorten supply chains and source closer to home. Some are even turning to Australia to offset mineral shortages, with Albania now hopping on board the Aussie mining cart.

3. Asia’s Reinvigorated Alliances

In a rare display of alignment, China, Japan, and South Korea are strengthening their ties—economically and politically—in response to U.S. trade actions. These nations, traditionally competitive, are finding common ground to stabilize their supply chains.

4. Gold Hits a Record

In other metals news: Gold soared to a record $3,176/oz last Thursday, reflecting heightened global economic uncertainty. When gold goes up like this, it’s often a sign that markets are bracing for volatility.

Last Week’s AL Price Ranges

To put things in context, here’s how we fluctuated last week:

Lowest LME Aluminum

High: $1.142
Low: $1.0682

Midwest Premium (MWP)

High: $0.3885
Low: $0.3805

Midwest Transaction Price (MWTP)

High: $1.5225
Low: $1.4567

Final Take

With prices down across the board and global tensions reshaping how materials move, there’s an opportunity here. If you're sitting on material waiting for a spike—you might want to rethink that strategy. The market isn't waiting on anyone.

Let’s talk if you’re looking to move some scrap or want a second opinion on how your imports/exports are being classified.

Stay sharp and stay in touch.

Information, research, offers, and quality of service provided by Wes Foster - Sr Business Development Manager.