Spot copper prices plunged sharply on May 26, 2026, with Yangtze spot #1 copper dropping 850
yuan/ton, marking the largest single-day decline in two weeks. Domestic SHFE copper futures fell
in tandem, while LME copper edged down slightly. Aluminum prices also tumbled across the board,
presenting a clear pattern of synchronized broad-based correction in both copper and aluminum.
Latest Data:
Yangtze #1 Copper: RMB 104,900/ton, -850
Bare Copper Wire (Oxygen-Free, Hard): RMB 106,060/ton, -850
Enameled Wire: RMB 110,170/ton, -850
Yangtze A00 Aluminum: RMB 24,080/ton, -230
Guangdong #1 Copper: RMB 104,980/ton, -840
Guangdong A00 Aluminum: RMB 23,910/ton, -230
LME Copper: USD 13,661/ton, -6
SHFE 2606 Front-Month Contract: RMB 104,860/ton, -460
SHFE 2607 Main Contract: RMB 104,830/ton, -440
Market View:
Spot copper prices accelerated their correction with a steep 850 yuan/ton drop, ending the previous
short-term rebound. Domestic SHFE copper futures fell moderately, with the main contract down 440
yuan/ton, reflecting cautious market sentiment. LME copper edged down slightly, supported by low
global inventories but pressured by macroeconomic headwinds. Aluminum prices tumbled over 200
yuan/ton across regions, ending their previous weak consolidation. The market has now entered a
high-level risk release phase with weak downstream demand as the core constraint.
Industry Note:
Copper price volatility remains elevated, with spot prices failing to hold above 105,000 yuan/ton amid
weak buying interest. Downstream procurement is extremely cautious, with most buyers adopting
a "wait-and-see" attitude and only purchasing for immediate rigid demand. Aluminum prices fell sharply
due to high domestic inventories and weak seasonal demand. Meanwhile, vigilance is required against
further accelerated declines if downstream demand fails to pick up in June.
Chatnow Insight:
We will maintain stable supply and transparent pricing, adjusting quotes flexibly based on real-time market
fluctuations to help our customers manage procurement costs effectively.