Aluminium Bahrain (Alba) has declared force majeure on metal deliveries due to severe shipping disruptions through the Strait of Hormuz. This suspension, tied solely to transit delays rather than smelter facility damage, contributed to a 5.1% surge in aluminum prices on the London Metal Exchange (LME), the largest jump since November 2024.

Prices have now reached levels not seen since 2022 as traders assess the impact on global supply chains.

The halt in maritime passage affects nearly all regional producers, creating commercial difficulties for factories relying on just-in-time inventory.

While a fire occurred near Mina Salman port on March 1, Alba clarified that current delivery delays are entirely due to the closure of critical shipping lanes. Market participants remain concerned about prolonged interruptions to the specialized aluminum supply network.