China's Aluminum Industry to Hit Carbon Peak by 2025

Overview of the 2024 China International Aluminum Week

On October 23, the 2024 China International Aluminum Week commenced in Kunming, Yunnan Province. Hosted by the China Nonferrous Metals Industry Association and organized by Beijing Antaike Information Co., Ltd., this year's event features key forums and seminars, including the China International Aluminum Conference and the Pan-Pacific Aluminum Summit Forum.

Key Insights from Ge Honglin

Ge Honglin, Secretary of the Party Committee and Chairman of the China Nonferrous Metals Industry Association, highlighted significant advancements in China's aluminum industry. Recent efforts have focused on three strategic areas:

• Supply-side structural reform of electrolytic aluminum to promote industry health.
• Continuous investment in science and technology to drive modernization.
• Emphasis on green, intelligent, and characteristic development for high-quality outcomes.

By 2025, it is anticipated that China's aluminum industry will achieve a carbon peak ahead of schedule, with recycled aluminum usage expected to exceed 50% in deformed aluminum alloys.

Challenges Addressed by Industry Leaders

Despite notable achievements, the industry faces challenges in high-quality development. Ge Honglin emphasized five focus areas:

• Further reforms to consolidate the marketization of electrolytic aluminum.
• Balanced management of domestic and foreign resource supplies.
• Commitment to independent scientific and technological innovation.
• Expansion and application of aluminum results.
• Enhancement of competitive soft and hard power in international trade.

Trade and Development Insights from Gu Yu

Gu Yu, deputy director of the Trade Relief Bureau of the Ministry of Commerce, acknowledged the strong export performance of China's aluminum industry despite global challenges. He suggested strategies to support sustained export growth:

• Enhance international competitiveness through internal development.
• Plan strategically for a diversified supply chain and market system.
• Strengthen capacity building for improved trade friction response.

Driving High-Quality Development: Perspectives from Shui Hengyong

Shui Hengyong, director of the Metallurgical Building Materials Department of the National Development and Reform Commission, stressed the importance of accelerating new quality productivity and adhering to high-quality development principles. Key initiatives include:

• Strict implementation of regulations on safety, environment, and carbon emissions.
• Accelerated industrial innovation and resource security foundations.
• Deepened international cooperation for sustained industry growth.

Innovative Focus Areas of China Aluminum Corporation

Shi Zhirong, deputy general manager of Aluminum Corporation of China, outlined four strategic focuses for 2023:

• Advancement in scientific and technological innovation.
• Strategic acquisition of mineral resources.
• Development of high-end advanced materials.
• Green, low-carbon, and digital transformation.

These initiatives have fostered breakthroughs in resource acquisition, innovation efficiency, and cultural and brand development.