Carmakers worldwide are rushing to secure aluminium supplies as the Middle East war disrupts production from key Gulf producers. Aluminium Bahrain and Qatalum have cut output due to power supply issues and shipping bottlenecks through the Strait of Hormuz, triggering panic buying among automakers who fear supplies could run out within months.

Executives report that automakers are drawing down inventories and seeking alternative sources, with some considering Russian metal despite previous boycotts. The price of aluminium on the London Metal Exchange initially jumped 12% after the conflict began, while regional premiums in the US, Europe, and Japan have risen even more sharply. Japanese automakers face particular challenges, relying heavily on Middle Eastern metal for their production.

Some European automakers may need to cut production as early as June or July if the conflict continues. The disruption comes on top of existing supply chain pressures from tariffs and last year's disruptions. Industry experts warn that aluminium's strict specification requirements make it difficult to switch suppliers quickly, with lead times of up to 18 months for alternatives. The situation highlights the vulnerability of global supply chains to geopolitical shocks.