Japanese manufacturers hurt most by aluminum shortage from Iran war

Japan’s reliance on the Middle East for aluminum is forcing companies to cut back on production and scramble for alternative supply sources after key shipping routes were severed due to the Iran conflict.

Among the most exposed are auto and parts makers such as Toyota Motor and Denso. Domestic carmakers get about 70% of their aluminum imports from the Middle East, according to the nation’s top auto lobby. The price of the lightweight alloy — used in everything from engine parts to wheels — has jumped about 13% since hostilities started in late February.

“It’s only been a month but it’s almost certain that we’ll soon have trouble making automobile parts,” Daiki Kato, CEO of Kato Light Metal Industry, said in an interview in late March. “We’re going to spend more selectively and conserve our energy.”