UAE Aluminum Exports Surge to U.S. Ahead of New Tariffs

Data from the U.S. Department of Commerce reveals a significant increase in aluminum exports from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to the United States in early March. This surge is attributed to buyers stockpiling aluminum before new U.S. tariffs take effect. In the first 11 days of March, the UAE exported 68,560.29 tons of aluminum to the U.S., a notable rise compared to the 16,124.88 tons exported throughout the entire month of March 2024. This marks the highest monthly export volume in nearly two years.

In 2024, Canada supplied approximately 70% of the U.S.’s consumption of primary and alloy aluminum, making it the largest supplier. The UAE ranks as the second-largest supplier, accounting for about 8% of the U.S.’s total aluminum consumption last year. In response to the U.S. tariffs, Canada has announced a 25% retaliatory tariff on these metals, as well as on computers, sporting goods, and other products.