Aluminum Market Size 2024-2028

The aluminum market size is forecast to increase by USD 31.43 billion, at a CAGR of 3.33% between 2023 and 2028. The market's dynamics are influenced by several critical factors. Firstly, there is an increasing demand for aluminum in electric vehicles (EVs), driven by efforts to reduce vehicle weight and improve energy efficiency. This trend underscores the automotive industry's shift towards sustainable materials. Secondly, the beverage industry is witnessing a rising demand for aluminum cans due to their recyclability and environmental benefits, responding to consumer preferences for eco-friendly packaging solutions. Thirdly, stringent regulations for environmental protection are shaping market practices, prompting industries to adopt sustainable manufacturing processes and materials like aluminum. Aluminum and carbon fiber are often used together in advanced manufacturing to create lightweight and durable products. These regulations drive innovation and compliance across sectors, fostering a market environment where sustainability and regulatory adherence play pivotal roles in shaping industry growth and consumer choices. As industries adapt to these trends, they are poised to capitalize on opportunities that align with evolving environmental standards and consumer expectations.

What will be the Size of the Market During the Forecast Period?

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Market Segmentation

The market research and growth research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in "USD Billion" for the period 2024 to 2028, as well as historical data from 2018 to 2022 for the following segments.

• End-user Outlook  
  • Transportation
  • Construction
  • Packaging
  • Electrical engineering
  • Others
• Type Outlook  
  • Primary aluminum
  • Secondary aluminum
• Geography Outlook  
  • North America
    • The U.S.
    • Canada
  • Europe
    • The U.K.
    • Germany
    • France
    • Rest of Europe
  • APAC
    • China
    • India
  • South America
    • Chile
    • Argentina
    • Brazil
  • Middle East & Africa
    • Saudi Arabia
    • South Africa
    • Rest of the Middle East & Africa

By End User

Transporation is the fastest-growing segment propelling the market growth. In aviation, aluminum finds use in fuselages, doors, floors, passenger seats, engine turbines, and cockpit instrumentation. The transportation sector, valued at USD 47.45 billion in 2018, saw continuous growth until 2022. Additionally, the imperative to reduce carbon emissions has compelled automakers to prioritize fuel efficiency and design, making aluminum a pivotal element in vehicles, promoting weight reduction and strength. Consequently, these factors are anticipated to boost aluminum demand, propelling the market's growth in the forecast period.

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APAC is estimated to contribute 33% to the growth of the global market during the forecast period. The major factor driving the growth of the packaging market in APAC is the rapid expansion of the retail sector, which is being supported by strong economic growth and a growing middle-class population. Thus, with demand surging from these industries, the need for aluminum is expected to see a significant increase going forward.

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Market Dynamics

The market is experiencing transformative growth driven by diverse industries and innovative applications. In aerospace and electrical applications, aluminum's lightweight and durable properties make it indispensable. Its role in solar energy reflects its efficiency in renewable technologies. Advances in 3D printing leverage aluminum's versatility. The development of aluminum-ion batteries and recycled aluminum addresses sustainability concerns. Key players like Alcoa Corporation lead in the extrusions segment, catering to building and construction needs. Residential real estate growth influences aluminum demand through home registrations and loan disbursements. Strict regulations and environmental concerns drive sustainable practices in the aluminum sector, influencing processing methods from bauxite to secondary product. As the electric vehicles market expands, aluminum's role in lightweighting and efficiency becomes more critical, positioning the market at the forefront of industrial innovation and environmental responsibility.

Key Market Driver 

Increasing demand for aluminum in EVs is a key factor boosting the market growth.  Aluminum's role in EVs, facilitating weight reduction and energy efficiency, is paramount. Notably, Norsk Hydro's German facility manufactures lightweight aluminum car body sheets. Aluminum's exceptional thermal conductivity is invaluable for regulating battery temperatures in various vehicle components.

As EVs solidify their role in the automotive industry's future, the global EV market's expansion drives aluminum demand. Aluminum plays a vital role in various EV components, including battery packs, frames, busbars, cables, heat sinks, motor housings, cabin heaters, and structural parts. Advances in battery technology, such as high-energy aluminum-air flow batteries, further boost the significance of aluminum in EV production. Consequently, the market is on an upward trajectory.

Significant Market Trends

Increasing use of lightweight materials in various end-user industries is the key trend in the market. Aluminum, a versatile and lightweight metal, has gained significant importance across various industries due to its unique properties. In the aerospace sector, aluminum is extensively used in the production of aircraft frames and body parts, including those for spaceships, due to its high strength-to-weight ratio. The electrical applications sector also favors aluminum for its excellent conductivity, making it a preferred choice for electrical wiring and electrical vehicles. Battery technology, particularly in the development of aluminum-ion batteries, is another area where aluminum is making a mark. As a secondary product, aluminum can be recycled from scrap metal or extracted from bauxite ore mining.

The processing methods for casting, extrusion, and wrought alloys cater to diverse needs in transportation and construction. Aluminum's role in the transportation industry extends beyond automobiles, with its use in cast and wrought alloys for vehicle parts, and cast products for engine blocks and cylinder heads. In the construction sector, aluminum's lightweight nature makes it an attractive alternative for building and construction materials, particularly in residential real estate. Key players in the aluminum sector, such as Alcoa Corporation and Hindalco Industries, dominate the market, with the extrusions segment being a significant contributor. The electric vehicles market, driven by environmental concerns and FDI inflows, is expected to boost demand for aluminum. Alternative investment funds are also investing in aluminum production and processing. Strict regulations and increasing focus on sustainability are pushing the industry towards more eco-friendly processing methods. Thus, such trends will shape the growth of the market during the forecast period.

Key Market Challenge

High volatility in London Metal Exchange (LME) prices of aluminum is the major challenge that affects the growth of the market. The aluminum market is driven by various factors, with primary aluminum prices influenced by the underlying base metal component, regional premiums, and product premiums. The underlying base metal component is determined by LME prices, which are subject to volatility due to macroeconomic factors, supply-demand dynamics, and investor trading activities. Regional premiums represent the incremental price for physically delivering aluminum to specific regions. Product premiums are additional costs for receiving the metal in a particular form, such as coil, billet, slab, rod, or alloy. Key industries utilizing aluminum include aerospace, electrical applications, and electric vehicles. In the aerospace sector, aluminum's lightweight properties contribute to fuel efficiency and reduced emissions. In the electrical applications segment, aluminum is used in wiring, transformers, and circuit breakers due to its excellent electrical conductivity. Electric vehicles also rely on aluminum for battery technology, particularly in the development of aluminum-ion batteries. Recycled aluminum, derived from scrap metal and bauxite ore mining, plays a crucial role in the aluminum sector.

The processing method for secondary aluminum involves melting and re-smelting, resulting in a lower carbon footprint compared to primary aluminum production. Strict regulations and environmental concerns are driving the demand for sustainable aluminum production. The extrusions segment, which includes cast products, sheet, plate, and extrusion, dominates the building and construction industry. Residential real estate, as indicated by home registrations and home loan disbursements, is a significant consumer of aluminum in this sector. The electrical industry also contributes significantly to the aluminum market, with FDI inflow playing a crucial role in its growth. The aluminum sector is expected to experience continued growth due to increasing demand from various industries and the shift towards sustainable production methods. Hence, the above factors will impede the growth of the market during the forecast period

Market Companies Overview

The market is fragmented in nature. Some significant players include Alcoa Corp.,  Century Aluminum Co., Hindalco Industries Ltd.,  China Zhongwang Holdings Ltd., Emirates Global Aluminium PJSC.

• United Company RUSAL: The company offers aluminium such as Re-melt ingots and aluminium T-bars.

The market growth and forecasting report also includes detailed analyses of the competitive landscape of the market and information about 14 market companies, including:

Aluminum Corp. of China Ltd., China Hongqiao Group Ltd., Gulf Extrusions Co. LLC, HP Inc., Jindal Aluminium Ltd., Kaiser Aluminum Corp., Manaksia Ltd., Norsk Hydro ASA, Rio Tinto Ltd., Saudi Arabian Mining Co., State Power Investment Corp., Vedanta Ltd., Vulcan Steel Ltd., and Xinfa.

Market Analyst Overview

The market is diverse and dynamic, driven by various sectors and applications. Aluminium-ion battery research aims to revolutionize energy storage, while secondary products and scrap metal contribute to sustainable practices. Bauxite ore mining provides the raw material for aluminum production, yielding cast products, sheets, plates, extrusions, and wrought alloy and cast alloy. Various processing method enhance its versatility across industries like the electrical industry and electronics market. Flexible packaging benefits from aluminum's recyclable properties, supporting environmental goals. Economic indicators such as home loan disbursements and FDI inflow impact market trends, alongside regulatory bodies like the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the International Organization of Motor Vehicle Manufacturers (OICA). Alternative investment funds drive innovation and growth in the aluminum sector, reflecting its pivotal role in global industrial and sustainable development efforts. 

Additionally, the market thrives on a diverse array of products and applications. Sheet and plate aluminum serve as foundational materials in construction and manufacturing, while extrusion offer versatility in design and functionality. Wrought and cast alloys cater to specific industrial needs, supported by advanced processing methods that enhance efficiency and product quality. Secondary products from recycled aluminum bolster sustainability efforts, appealing to environmentally conscious markets like the flexible packaging sector. Foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows and alternative investment funds drive innovation and expansion in the aluminum industry, fostering economic growth and technological advancements. The intrinsic recyclable properties of aluminum further underscore its role as a sustainable material choice across various sectors, ensuring long-term viability and environmental stewardship in global markets.

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What are the Key Data Covered in this Market Research Report?

• CAGR of the market during the forecast period
• Detailed information on factors that will drive the growth of the market between 2024 and 2028
• Precise estimation of the market  size and its contribution of the market in focus to the parent market
• Accurate predictions about upcoming trends and changes in consumer behavior
• Growth of the market across APAC, Europe, North America, Middle East and Africa, and South America
• Thorough analysis of the market's competitive landscape and detailed information about companies
• Comprehensive analysis of factors that will challenge the growth of market companies

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