India’s recycled aluminium demand is forecast to rise from 2.3 million tonnes in 2026 to 3.69 million tonnes by 2030 and 5.45 million tonnes by 2035. Automotive consumption alone could reach around 3 million tonnes by 2035, driven by vehicle, EV and battery investment. India already imported approximately 2 million tonnes of aluminium scrap in 2025, including around 20% from the Middle East. Stronger Indian demand, the UAE’s June 2026 scrap-export ban and restrictions in other exporting countries could intensify Asian competition and keep scrap prices elevated.
