Japanese and Global Manufacturers Brace for Prolonged Aluminium shortage – 20 April 2026

Summary: Major shipping routes in the Middle East remain severed, cutting off roughly 30% of Japan’s supply and impacting global availability. With the Strait of Hormuz restricted, alumina refineries in Abu Dhabi and Bahrain report significant damage. Experts warn that even with a peace deal, it could take a year to restore full production. For extrusion companies, this means a shift toward Southeast Asian and Canadian suppliers to avoid production halts.

https://www.japantimes.co.jp