China’s Aluminum Billet Inventories Fall 3.5% as Strong Demand Drives Faster Destocking

October 30, 2026: China’s aluminum billet inventories recorded a notable decline as stronger consumption in southern markets accelerated stock reductions, according to the latest data released by Shanghai Metals Market (SMM).

As of October 30, combined social inventories of 6063 aluminum billets across Guangdong and Wuxi stood at approximately 83,500 metric tonnes, representing a decrease of 3,000 tonnes, or 3.5%, compared with the previous trading day.

The latest figures indicate an acceleration in inventory reductions, reflecting stronger cargo collection and improved market activity, particularly in southern China.

Guangdong recorded the largest decline, with aluminum billet inventories falling by 4,500 tonnes to 38,500 tonnes. The reduction suggests stronger downstream demand and increased movement of materials from warehouses into manufacturing and processing operations.

In contrast, Wuxi experienced an increase in inventories, with stocks rising by 1,500 tonnes to 45,000 tonnes. The growth was primarily associated with continued shipments arriving in the region, highlighting differences in regional supply and consumption patterns.

The contrasting trends demonstrate how China's aluminum billet market is experiencing uneven inventory movements across major trading centres.

While Guangdong benefited from stronger cargo pick-up and faster consumption, Wuxi continued accumulating stocks as incoming supplies exceeded withdrawals.

Aluminum billets are widely used in construction, transportation, industrial manufacturing and extrusion applications, making inventory fluctuations an important indicator of downstream industrial activity.

Market participants closely monitor these figures to assess changes in supply availability, demand conditions and potential pricing pressures.

The latest inventory movement suggests that regional demand and logistics remain important factors influencing China's aluminum market.

SMM emphasized that its inventory assessments are compiled using publicly available information, market communications and internal database models.

The figures are intended for market reference and should not be interpreted as investment recommendations.

Further inventory developments will depend on manufacturing demand, production levels and regional shipment patterns.