Middle East Conflict Affects Aluminum Industry, Rio Tinto Suspends Negotiations with Japan

K-LinePoet · 2026-03-07T18:22:33+00:00

Rio Tinto suspends aluminum supply negotiations with Japanese clients due to escalation of Middle East conflict and withdraws a premium bid of $250 per ton, the highest since 2015. This decision reflects the impact of the conflict on metal prices.

K-LinePoet

2026-03-07 18:22:33

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Rio Tinto has suspended negotiations with Japanese clients regarding aluminum supply for the second quarter, citing the escalation of hostilities in this key production region triggered by US and Israeli strikes on Iran. According to sources, the mining giant has withdrawn its initial premium offer of $250 per ton. The sources said Rio Tinto stated that the Middle East conflict’s impact on metal prices was the reason for this change. Japan is a major importer of aluminum, and its so-called “Japanese premium” is seen as a benchmark reflecting demand in this major downstream market in East Asia. Two sources revealed that the initial $250 level proposed by Rio Tinto was the highest since at least 2015.

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