Rising energy costs and policy decisions are shaping the future of US aluminium smelting. Domestic production, investment and competitiveness depend on low-cost power, tariff impacts and the transition to renewable and nuclear energy sources.

The Aluminum Association has called for an export ban on used beverage container (UBC) scrap from the US to countries outside of North America, arguing that aluminium scrap should be treated as a strategic asset in a white paper released on Tuesday October 14.

Saudi Arabia’s ambition to become a global mining powerhouse is no longer only a vision; it is now a sprint. Robert Wilt, chief executive officer of Maaden, outlined the company’s rapid transformation into one of the world’s largest diversified miners, driven by speed, scale and technology.

Iron ore is now the new pawn in international geopolitics, with China now pushing yuan-based payments for imported iron ore

Freeport’s 2026 copper concentrate contracts introduce a higher floor-cap pricing structure that redefines industry benchmarks. The negotiations highlight broader shifts in global copper supply, smelting economics and pricing frameworks.

Explore the benefits of buying new vs used pallets and their impact on sustainability in the packaging industry.

Brazil faces growing pressure to strengthen its steel import safeguards as global trade imbalances and new EU measures reshape export and import dynamics. Rising inflows from Asia threaten domestic mills, exposing weaknesses in Brazil’s trade defenses.

Barry Zekelman discusses how the domestic steel industry remains a cornerstone of America’s national security, energy independence and technological growth.

The US Defense Logistics Agency has canceled its contract opportunity to purchase up to 7,500 tonnes of alloy-grade cobalt due to unresolved issues with the statement of work. The cancellation comes amid a sharp rise in cobalt prices, with the agency indicating the solicitation will be reissued once the issues are resolved.

‘Animal spirits’ are back in the copper market as supply disruptions, declining ore grades, and rising demand push prices toward $19,000–$22,000 per tonne, with long-term demand supported by electrification, defense, and global infrastructure growth.