Apr. 27, 2025 - China’s bauxite imports rise sharply in March 2025, totaling 16.47 million tonnes—a 14.23% month-on-month increase and a 39.06% year-on-year gain. Cumulative imports for Q1 (January–March) reach 47.09 million tonnes, up 30.0% year-on-year. 

Mainstream sourcing shows particularly strong momentum: shipments from Guinea surge to 12.999 million tonnes in March (up 21.16% MoM and 47.73% YoY), setting a new monthly record, while Australian exports to China amount to 2.535 million tonnes (up 7.3% MoM and 2.2% YoY).

Non-traditional suppliers also expand their footprint. Combined volumes from Guyana, Turkey, Malaysia, Laos, Ghana, Montenegro, the Solomon Islands and Pakistan total 931,000 tonnes in March—a 66.1% YoY increase—accounting for 6.11% of China’s overall bauxite imports.

Although planned cuts in alumina production may temporarily curb bauxite demand in April, the surge in imports is expected to underpin supply and drive inventory build-up. Looking ahead to May, supply will remain robust, and demand could see a modest rebound as both new and idled capacities come back online. Nevertheless, a persistent surplus is likely to maintain downward pressure on bauxite prices.