International demand: Dual drive by new energy and infrastructure

June 04, 2026
10

1.New Energy: The core engine of global growth

Lightweighting of New Energy Vehicles: Global sales of electric vehicles are expected to reach over 19 million units, with each vehicle using 280-300 kilograms of aluminium (twice the amount used in gasoline vehicles); Demand for battery trays, vehicle body structures, and chassis components has surged sharply. Imports in Europe and North America have increased by 22% year-on-year, and orders are scheduled until the fourth quarter.

Solar power + energy storage boom: Each GW of solar powder installed requires 10000 tons of aluminium. In 2026, the global new installation capacity will reach 528GW, corresponding to an aluminium demand of 528 million tons. For energy storage, 160000 tons of aluminium are consumed for every 100GWh, with a growth rate of 39% and an additional contribution of 57000 tons.

Grid upgrade and aluminium substitution for copper: The power grids in Europe and the United States are aging (on average 40 years), and the construction of ultra-high voltage and intelligent grids is accelerating. Copper-aluminium price ratio:4.2:1 (higher than the 3.5:1 threshold for alternative substitution), the “aluminium replacing copper” process for high-voltage wiring harnesses, busbars, and cables is accelerating, resulting in a 40% weight reduction and a 50% cost reduction.

2.Global Infrastructure: Europe, America + Southeast Asia + Middle East Sync

Rebound of infrastructure investment from Europe and the US: The US infrastructure bill and the EU’s green infrastructure plan have been implemented, leading to an increase in demand for building facades, formworks, and transportation track profiles. European aluminium profiles imports increased by 15% year-on-year, and the dependence on imports from the United States rose to 35%.

High growth in Southeast Asia: Vietnam, Thailand and Indonesia are focusing their efforts on photovoltaics, powder grids and real estate. Aluminium profiles account for 20% of China’s exports. RCEP tariff reduction + insufficient domestic production capacity, resulting in continuous increase in orders.

Reconstruction needs in the Middle East: After the conflict in Hormuz, the power grids, ports and infrastructure in Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates were restarted, and orders for aluminium stranded wire, building profiles and supports increased significantly. In April and May, China exported 40000 to 50000 tons of goods to the Middle East, achieving a growth of several times compared to the same period last year.

3.Overall data

In 2026, global aluminium demand will increase by 7 million tons or more. Among this, the contribution from new energy (vehicles, solar energy, storage, and power grids) will exceed 60%, while traditional infrastructure will maintain a steady growth. With its complete industrial chain and cost advantages, China’s aluminium profiles have taken on over 60% of the global transfer orders. The export proportion of high-end industrial profiles (such as photovoltaic frames, battery trays, and automotive components) has continued to increase.

International demand: Dual drive by new energy and infrastructure

1.New Energy: The core engine of global growth

2.Global Infrastructure: Europe, America + Southeast Asia + Middle East Sync

3.Overall data

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