This roundtable discussion will focus on the latest advancements in inert anode technology and its role in reducing direct CO2 emissions in the aluminium industry. The discussion will touch upon updates on the development and implementation of inert anodes, exploring their potential to revolutionise smelting processes and enhance environmental sustainability. Participants will engage in discussions on the challenges, opportunities, and future prospects of this innovative technology, aiming to accelerate its adoption for a greener aluminium production.

The roundtable discussion will delve into the divergent approaches of the EU and USA towards green initiatives, particularly focusing on the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) and its global trade implications. The discussion will examine the impact of CBAM on import/export dynamics with major economies like China, India, and Australia, considering its consistency with international trade agreements and the challenges faced by importers and exporters due to imprecise rules. The conversation will also explore the need for a cohesive global carbon trading system to address environmental concerns on a broader scale.

Kick off this year’s event with an evening of networking and drinks, during the welcome drinks reception.

Discover how recycled aluminium, with its energy-efficient production and high recyclability, plays a critical role in supporting transitions to a circular economy. Explore the global landscape of aluminium recycling, including the ratio of pre-consumer to post-consumer scrap, and learn about the principles and conditions for maximizing circularity, from efficient scrap collection and sorting systems to product design considerations for extended product life cycles. Join us to delve into the significance of recycled aluminium in achieving sustainable resource efficiencies and driving circular economy outcomes.

Delve into an in-depth analysis of key economic indicators, including GDP growth, inflation rates, and currency fluctuations, and their implications for the aluminium market. Gain valuable perspectives on global economic trends, trade dynamics, and geopolitical developments that are shaping the future of the industry. 

In this panel discussion, industry experts will delve into the multifaceted landscape of the aluminium market, examining recent trends and economic indicators shaping the sector’s outlook. Key topics of discussion will include the impact of geopolitical events such as the Russian metals reduction in the EU, alongside broader economic factors like interest rate fluctuations and election year uncertainties across various economies. The panellists will explore the implications of demand downturns in Europe and emerging recovery signs in regions like Southern Europe’s extrusion industry, providing insights into the market dynamics influencing aluminium consumption. Additionally, the conversation will address critical questions surrounding the transition to green energy and its impact on aluminium demand, as well as the evolving role of renewables amidst geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainties. Through a comprehensive analysis of market drivers and geopolitical influences, the panel aims to offer strategic perspectives on navigating the current challenges and opportunities in the aluminium sector.

This session will provide a focused examination of China’s pivotal role in shaping the global aluminium landscape and its interconnectedness with renewable energy initiatives worldwide. Attendees will gain insights into China’s efforts to regulate its primary aluminium production, including updates on operational capacity caps and their implications for international supply dynamics. Moreover, the session will delve into China’s evolving economic recovery and property market trends, shedding light on the country’s strategic moves to enhance its recycling sector and reduce reliance on primary aluminium. With a spotlight on China’s influence on renewable energy adoption and competitive pricing in sectors like manufacturing and electric vehicles, attendees will gain valuable perspectives from industry experts closely engaged with China’s government policies and market dynamics.

This session aims to provide comprehensive insights into the intricate landscape of trade policies, including AD/CV duties, Section 232 investigations, and Section 301 tariffs, against the backdrop of the upcoming US presidential elections. Attendees will benefit from expert analysis and strategic assessments, gaining clarity on the current state and potential evolution of these policies and their implications for the aluminium market. Discussions will encompass the effectiveness of tariffs, legal considerations surrounding downstream applications, and the potential outcomes of the US elections on trade policy trajectories. Additionally, participants will explore strategies to navigate regulatory uncertainties and anticipate shifts in global trade relationships, empowering them to make informed decisions amidst political transitions and regulatory changes.

Explore innovative financing mechanisms and challenges associated with decarbonizing industries, focusing on alternative pricing instruments, green loans, and the transition costs inherent in the shift towards a sustainable economy. Discuss strategies for mobilizing investments required for ambitious environmental goals, including modernizations and furnace transitions essential for meeting global targets under the Green Deal.

Assess how advancements in separation technology are reshaping the movement of scrap, particularly in response to changing auto specifications driven by the rise of electric vehicles. Gain insights into the complexities of scrap categorization, including distinguishing between post-consumer and post-production scrap, and examine emerging technologies aimed at sorting aluminium within alloys for enhanced recycling efficiency.

Engage in a lively morning roundtable discussion exploring Europe’s pivotal role in the global aluminium market amidst shifting dynamics and emerging challenges. Assess the implications of Europe’s stagnant capacity growth and the widening gap between recycling supply and demand, particularly considering the continent’s ambitious sustainability goals. Delve into the potential ramifications of the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) and other policy measures on industry competitiveness, while contemplating strategic pathways for Europe to navigate these complex landscapes and maintain its position as a leading player in the aluminium market.

Delve into the regulatory landscape and public policies affecting the aluminium industry, with a spotlight on the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) in the European Union. Explore CBAM’s impact on import/export dynamics and carbon emissions, while discussing strategies for compliance and adaptation in a changing global market.

Explore the critical juncture faced by the aluminium industry amidst the global energy transition, focusing on China’s role and the potential acceleration of renewable power adoption worldwide. Assess the industry’s readiness to meet rising demand against the backdrop of evolving renewable energy landscapes and the challenges posed by initiatives like the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) in the EU. Delve into the implications of fluctuating EV sales in Germany and the broader impact on aluminium demand, while also examining the trajectory of the green energy transition and its significance for future aluminium consumption. Additionally, gain insights into the adequacy of EU resources to support the energy transition, including discussions on the EU Critical Raw Materials Act. Are we at pivot point for energy transition for aluminium demand.