Aluminium makers stare at consumption slowdown on auto sector stress

The prevailing economic slump and auto sector stress are likely to moderate consumption of aluminium products

Buffeted by headwinds like soaring imports and lacklustre LME (London Metal Exchange) prices, the country's primary aluminium producers are in for fresh trouble as consumption is likely to decline.

A firm consumption of aluminium has been one of the bright spots for domestic aluminium makers, helping them sustain operations against volatile international prices. However, the prevailing economic slump and auto sector stress are likely to moderate aluminium products' consumption.

“Going ahead, we see challenging times for primary aluminium players as consumption is likely to decline in CY (calendar year) 2019 in the wake of the auto slowdown and the expected