On April 13, the London Metal Exchange (LME) announced a ban on Russian metal produced on or after April 13 in compliance with recent sanctions imposed by the United States and the United Kingdom due to Russia’s actions in Ukraine.
The sanctions are designed to limit revenues generated by Russia from the export of metal produced by entities such as Rusal and Nornickel, which are believed to contribute to financing Russian military operations in Ukraine.
Both the U.S. Treasury Department and the British government issued directives on Friday prohibiting the LME, along with the Chicago Mercantile Exchange (CME), from accepting new Russian production of aluminum, copper, and nickel.
The LME clarified that Russian metal produced before April 13 could still be processed if evidence of its production date is provided. However, restrictions remain in place for UK LME Members and clients regarding the cancellation or withdrawal of corresponding metal warrants unless done on behalf of a non-UK Client.
In response to inquiries regarding the sanctions and the proportion of Russian metal in its warehouses, the CME stated that it is evaluating the situation and will communicate any potential impacts on its markets. The CME also mentioned its policy of not disclosing the origin or brands of metal stored in its facilities.
British officials expressed expectations of short-lived market disruptions and confirmed consultations with relevant entities to mitigate any adverse effects.
The announcement of the ban coincided with the weekend closure of trading activities. Industry sources anticipate a restrained price reaction when trading resumes in Asian markets on Monday, although a significant price increase similar to the 2018 aluminum surge following previous sanctions on Rusal remains a possibility.
It’s noted that any potential sanctions by the European Union could likely lead to further price fluctuations. The EU, a significant importer of aluminum for various industries, has been cautious about sourcing from Russia since the Ukraine conflict in 2022.
Regarding concerns about potential loopholes, British officials clarified that the sanctions do not impede bilateral contracts between companies outside the LME. They also suggested that trading Russian metals off the exchanges may occur at a discount but emphasized that overall supply is not restricted.
The proportion of Russian-origin metal in LME-approved warehouses has raised concerns among some producers and Western consumers, especially since the conflict between Russia and Ukraine began in 2022.
In December, Britain prohibited the import of base metals from Russia and announced intentions to extend restrictions to ancillary services in coordination with international partners.
The LME, owned by Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing (0388.HK), remains the largest and oldest platform for metal trading globally.
Breaking supply chain news is just a click away at The Supply Chain Report. Enhance your knowledge of international trade at ADAMftd.com with free tools.
#LMErestrictsRussianMetal#SanctionsOnMetal#MetalTradeSanctions#LMEsanctionsUpdate#RussianMetalBan
