The numbers tell a quiet but compelling story. Year after year, global aluminium foil consumption has moved steadily upward - not in bursts, but in a measured climb that signals durable, long-term demand that helps in aluminium market forecast. Back in 2018, worldwide aluminium foil usage was about 5.3 million tonnes. By 2023, that figure had climbed to 6.1 million tonnes. Current estimates place consumption at roughly 6.8 million tonnes in 2025, with volumes expected to move closer to 7 million tonnes in 2026.
Europe is following a similar path. Demand is gradually firming up, supported largely by pharmaceutical packaging and the region’s continued shift toward premium products. However, stricter regulations aimed at reducing packaging waste, along with elevated energy costs, are keeping the pace of growth measured rather than rapid.
But the bigger story lies in the type of aluminium foil Europe produces, imports and exports - and the gap between these categories is significant.
