Aluminum futures in the UK fell toward $3,530 per tonne, extending their retreat from an over four-year high despite renewed concerns over supply disruptions from the Persian Gulf, a region that accounts for roughly 9% of global output. Iran blocked the Strait of Hormuz again only hours after reopening it, blaming the US for its ongoing blockade of Iranian ports. Beyond restricting shipping flows through one of the world’s most important trade routes, the conflict has also directly affected production capacity. Key refineries in the UAE and Bahrain were damaged after being hit by Iranian strikes. Analysts noted that supply regional constraints could persist for months even if hostilities end soon, as restoring damaged smelting and refining capacity is expected to take significant time. Emirates Global Aluminium, the region’s largest producer, said it will take at least a year to restore production.
