US scrap markets react to Middle East aluminum disruption

As geopolitical tensions disrupt key trade flows from the Middle East, historically supplying up to 20% of US unwrought aluminum imports, market participants are navigating heightened uncertainty, shifting price signals and evolving supply dynamics.

In this Market Insight video, Argus senior reporter Alex Nicoll outlines key shifts across unwrought aluminum imports, Midwest transaction pricing and scrap buying behavior.

Key Topics Covered:

• Recent volatility in LME and Midwest transaction prices
• How intrinsic values are influencing US scrap pricing and procurement strategies
• Shifting buying behavior among rolling mills, extruders and brokers
• Cost pressures facing secondary alloy producers
• Developments in export markets, including logistics constraints and changing trade flows
• Near-term expectations for scrap demand, spreads and price direction

Connect with Argus

Argus will be attending the ReMA 2026 Expo in Las Vegas. Visit us at booth 1444, where Alex Nicoll and our team of metals market experts will be available to discuss these developments and what they mean for your business.

To arrange a meeting in advance, or if you have any questions about this insight or Argus’ scrap market coverage, please get in touch with our team below.