US export aluminum scrap prices rose on Thursday after exporters raised prices to match the resurgence in demand from the domestic market.
The weekly Davis Index for Taint/Tabor increased by 2.2¢/lb to 76.2¢/lb fas US port while Tense climbed by 3.5¢/lb to 76.5¢/lb fas. The index for mill-grade scrap A356 wheels fell by a penny to $1/lb fas while 6063 clean, bare extrusion dropped by 0.5¢/lb to $1.03/lb fas.
Meanwhile, the weekly index for Talk settled at $2.093/lb fas, up 1.8¢/lb from last week as terminal prices for both aluminum and copper increased. The Davis Index for Zorba 95/2 inched up by 0.2¢/lb to 72.7¢/lb fas US port while Zorba 99/3 jumped by 2¢/lb to 74¢/lb fas. Demand for zorba continues to strengthen from Asian countries and the US domestic market.
Most exporters reported issues with logistics this week. While some had problems with export equipment availability, others witnessed vessel delays. This has hindered many deals and also caused cancellations in some cases. A trading company switched back to domestic sales this week citing considerable demand and logistics issues in the export market.
The official LME Aluminium cash price closed Thursday at $2,635/mt ($1.195/lb), up $91/mt from Aug 19.