Chay Chye Leng

The Kyushu region is a major manufacturing hub for automobiles, semiconductors, electronic components and flat-rolled steel products. Toyota paused production for three of its plants in the Fukuoka prefecture on Tuesday, initially planning to restart in the morning on Wednesday July 29, but by late in the day the automaker released another statement announcing a further suspension until Friday July 31. Its subsidiary Daihatsu has also shut down its Oita and Kurume factories until Friday.

Key takeaways: Indonesia continues to emerge as a major aluminium production hub, with large-scale, Chinese-backed smelter capacity still expanding. Middle East supply disruptions are increasing interest in alternative origin aluminium, supporting Indonesian premiums and demand. Aluminium prices and premiums remain highly sensitive to geopolitical risk, with escalation scenarios keeping bullish momentum intact.

Key takeaways: South32 will mothball its Mozal aluminium smelter in March 2026 due to failed electricity supply negotiations Mozal’s closure tightens Europe’s aluminium supply, boosting premiums for low-carbon, duty-free aluminium Asia faces increased competition for aluminium as Europe seeks replacements, pushing Japanese premiums higher Alumina oversupply in the Pacific grows as South32 redirects Worsley refinery output, pressuring prices downward Australian producer South32’s decision to...