Aluminium sheet price, week 41/2026: SMM A00 drops to 23,650
Shanghai reopened after National Day with two down sessions: the SMM A00 aluminium in...
The cast aluminum alloy market is currently experiencing a complex tug-of-war. According to recent data, the most-traded cast aluminum alloy contract saw a slight increase overnight. However, the SMM A356 aluminum price has remained stable, reflecting a delicate balance between various market forces. This stability indicates an underlying competition between production costs and actual purchasing power.
Companies producing and trading products like aluminum plates and aluminum coils are closely monitoring these fluctuations to develop appropriate business strategies in this volatile market.

Raw material costs are the primary factor supporting cast aluminum alloy prices. The prices of key inputs such as industrial silicon and aluminum ingots remain high. This creates a price floor, preventing a significant drop in the finished product's price. Manufacturers find it difficult to lower their selling prices when input costs do not decrease, providing solid support for the market.
On the other hand, demand from downstream sectors is showing signs of weakening. Die-casting enterprises, particularly in the automotive industry, are facing a decline in orders. Consequently, they are only making purchases on an as-needed basis and keeping inventory levels to a minimum. This cautious approach reduces buying pressure on the market, curbing price increases. Specialized products like 6061-T6 round aluminum bars are similarly affected by this trend.
In the short term, the cast aluminum alloy market is expected to remain stable. The "stalemate" between strong cost support and weak consumer demand has created a deadlock, making it difficult for prices to break out in a specific direction. Businesses will need to continue monitoring both factors closely to adjust their production and sales activities.
Besides cast aluminum alloys, other products such as checkered aluminum plates are also gaining attention, serving diverse needs in construction and industry. Product diversification could be an effective strategy during this period of sideways market movement.