The current pricing and supply dynamics for aluminum and steel profiles present a strategic window for cost-effective procurement. With aluminum export margins recovering to multi-year highs and steel prices entering a period of moderate upward correction, we recommend clients with Q2/Q3 project requirements to selectively place orders now​ to lock in favorable terms before the peak season-driven price surge.

1. Aluminum Profiles: High Margin, Stable Supply

The aluminum profile market has digested the impact of the export tax policy cancellation (effective Dec 2024), and profitability has returned to pre-cancellation levels.

Market Dynamics

• Price Trend: Export margins have improved significantly in Q1 2026. While domestic prices remain stable, the window for high-margin exports is expected to narrow as global demand picks up.

• Supply Status: Exports in Jan-Feb 2026 showed unusual stability, breaking the traditional seasonal slump. Major manufacturers in Fujian (Xiamen base) and Guangdong are operating at high capacity utilization rates, ensuring smooth delivery lead times.

• Risk Factor: The “double anti-dumping” policy environment persists. Sourcing high-value-added products from compliant suppliers is crucial to avoid future tariff shocks.

2. Steel Profiles: Bottoming Out, Upward Trajectory

The steel profile market is transitioning from a post-holiday inventory digestion phase to a demand recovery phase.

Market Dynamics

• Price Trend: March 2026 saw a “first weak, then strong” pattern. Prices have bottomed out and are now on a gentle upward trend as infrastructure and manufacturing projects resume. The price increase is currently moderate but is expected to accelerate.

• Policy Impact: The export license新政 implemented on Jan 1, 2026, initially caused delays. This bottleneck has now cleared, and export volumes are recovering, indicating renewed international demand.

• Regional Advantage: Xiamen/China-based suppliers benefit from stable inventory levels of angle steel, channel steel, and H-beams, with no current supply disruptions.

3. Actionable Recommendations

4. Next Steps for Clients

• Review Project Pipelines: Identify any Q3 2026 project requirements that can be pulled forward.

• Request Updated Quotations: Contact our sales team for firm offers valid for 7-10 days to hedge against intra-month volatility.

• Discuss Volume Allocation: For large projects, we can reserve mill capacity with a small deposit to guarantee pricing.