Japanese auto component manufacturers are negotiating with the Russian metallurgical concern Rusal about possible supplies of aluminum and foundry alloys.
We are talking about raw materials that are used in the production of automotive parts, including wheel disks and cylinder blocks. Japanese companies are considering resuming purchases amid the risk of disruptions in aluminum supplies from the Persian Gulf countries.
Japanese businesses have not purchased aluminum and alloys from Rusal since 2022. However, the situation on the global market may change due to the escalation of the conflict between the United States, Israel and Iran. This increases the likelihood of disruptions in metal supplies from the region.
The Persian Gulf countries account for about 8% of global aluminum production. At the same time, some manufacturers have already announced the suspension of supplies. In particular, we are talking about the companies Qatalum and Alba.
Against the background of a possible shortage of raw materials, Japanese auto component manufacturers began to look for alternative sources of supply. One such option could be Russian Rusal.