The German aluminium industry remains under substantial pressure as the first quarter of 2025 showed only marginal improvements in production volumes, with no signs yet of a full recovery.
According to data released by Aluminium Deutschland (AD), output has stabilised but at historically low levels.
AD President Rob van Gils issued a pointed call to the federal government, stating: “The promised signal of departure from the coalition agreement must now finally come. Germany is in danger of being left without growth in 2025 as well.”
He emphasised that industry urgently needs lower energy prices and a stable investment environment.
“That is the only right answer to the return of the sick man of Europe,” van Gils warned.
Mixed signals from Q1 2025 production data
The first quarter data revealed mixed results within different segments of the aluminium industry. Aluminium recyclers showed modest growth, producing around 703,000 tonnes of recycled aluminium - an increase of 3% compared to the previous quarter.
However, the broader picture remains pessimistic. Producers of semi-finished aluminium products reported stagnation, with a slight rise of 1% to 576,000 tonnes. Within this category, rolled aluminium products saw a 2% increase to 456,000 tonnes, while aluminium extrusions dropped by 2% to 121,000 tonnes.
“There is still no talk of easing,” van Gils said. “Extrusion pressers even had to accept a renewed decline. Demand remains weak.”
He noted that some short-term demand was driven by customers replenishing inventories while aluminium prices were low, rather than a sustained economic recovery.
Structural challenges persist
The data underscores the structural challenges facing the aluminium sector in Germany. High energy costs, regulatory uncertainty and sluggish demand are all contributing to the industry's stagnant output.
Van Gils’ remarks reflect a growing impatience among industry leaders for meaningful policy action to revitalise one of Germany’s key industrial sectors.
German aluminium industry remains under strain
