Brief analysis of global alumina structure

Global alumina production capacity distribution

The global distribution of alumina production capacity is quite extensive, spanning across six continents: Asia, Europe, Africa, North America, South America, and Oceania. According to data from SMM (Shanghai Metals Market), there are currently records of alumina production in 29 countries. Overseas production capacity is primarily concentrated in countries and regions with abundant bauxite resources and a concentrated aluminum electrolysis industry. China's installed capacity holds a significant share of the global market.

Figure 1. Detailed Distribution of Global Alumina Production Capacity

Figure 2. Detailed Distribution of Overseas Alumina Production Capacity Excluding China

Figure 3. Detailed Alumina Production Capacity by Continent in 2023

Brief analysis of global alumina production capacity and output in recent ten years

According to the data, global installed capacity of alumina (aluminum oxide) has increased from 124.47 million tons in 2012 to 177.89 million tons in 2022. Production has also risen from 99.50 million tons in 2012 to 141.37 million tons in 2022. China has been the main driving force behind the growth in production, with its share in global alumina production increasing from 47% in 2013 to 58% in 2022. The global capacity utilization rate has remained around 80%

Figure 4. Breakdown of global alumina production capacity, output and utilization rate.

A brief analysis of alumina production capacity and output in China in recent ten years

From 2013 to 2023, China's annual production of alumina increased from 46.53 million tons to 78.07 million tons, with a compound annual growth rate of 5.9%. The period from 2013 to 2018 witnessed a high-speed development phase for China's alumina industry. The capacity utilization rate reached its peak at 87% in 2017-2018. However, the capacity utilization rate of alumina has been declining since then. It reached its lowest point at around 77% in 2020 and slightly recovered to around 80% afterwards.

Figure 5. Details of alumina production capacity, output and operating rate in China