Aluminum Imports to Israel Halved Following Provisional Anti-Dumping Measures
In May, the Ministry of Economy imposed a temporary guarantee on aluminum imports from China. As a result, Israeli aluminum importers have already reduced their orders from China by 50%. Simultaneously, access to the Turkish market has been almost entirely blocked for Israeli buyers.
The Commissioner of Trade Levies in the Ministry of Economy imposed the temporary guarantee at an exceptionally steep rate of up to 146%. The purpose of this measure was to prevent further harm to the local industry and to curb increased imports at dumped prices pending conclusion of an investigation and a final determination on the matter. The decision’s implementation was deferred to September 2025, following the war with Iran.
Sharp Decline in Aluminum Imports to Israel
According to published data, and despite the deferred implementation, aluminum imports to Israel have already dropped significantly. In January 2025, aluminum imports amounted to approximately USD 19.5 million, while by June that figure had fallen to only USD 9.3 million. Combined with Turkey’s ongoing economic sanctions against Israel—effectively blocking aluminum imports from Turkey—several importers have indicated that soon there may be no aluminum imports at all.
Implications for the Israeli Economy and the Real Estate Sector
The sharp reduction in aluminum imports harms competition among suppliers to the Israeli market. In the short term, this is likely to result in significant price increases for aluminum and aluminum-based products.
One of the most direct effects is likely to be in the construction sector. Aluminum profiles are a critical input in both commercial and residential construction, and rising prices are expected to contribute to higher real estate costs, already among the highest globally. Even a moderate increase in construction input costs may trickle down to consumers in a significant way. Another possible effect is delays in the delivery of housing units and commercial buildings, as the local market struggles to meet existing demand. The solar energy sector, which makes extensive use of aluminum components in various forms, is also likely to be adversely affected.
Anti-Dumping Levies and Market Tensions
The decision to impose a temporary guarantee, and the forthcoming decision by the Commissioner of Trade Levies about a potential permanent anti-dumping levy on aluminum imports, highlight the inherent tension between local producers and importers and consumers.
Local producers view anti-dumping levies as a necessary safeguard for business stability and employment in the sector. While they are likely to benefit from higher prices, importers and downstream industries argue that temporary guarantees and anti-dumping levies restrict market choice, harm local industries that rely on aluminum as a raw material, and drive unjustified price increases.
This tension underscores the importance of the forthcoming decision by the Commissioner of Trade Levies on whether to impose a permanent anti-dumping levy on aluminum imports from China.
Why a Deep Understanding of Trade Law Is Crucial
Importers and exporters, as well as domestic and foreign producers, must have a thorough understanding of the Trade Levies and Safeguards Law and assess how best to leverage it to protect and advance their economic interests. This is particularly relevant in the current economic and geopolitical environment, where—against the backdrop of ongoing trade tensions between the United States and China—the Israeli government is increasingly inclined to adopt measures aligned with the American trade agenda.
Prof. Amichai Cohen serves as the firm’s Special Counsel for International Law and National Security.
Dr. Ran Karmi is an associate in the firm’s Antitrust & Competition Department.
Barnea Jaffa Lande provides clients with comprehensive legal services in the field of international law, including international trade, security and defense law, Israeli constitutional law, international criminal law, and the application of international law in Israeli courts. The firm advises clients on matters involving international trade agreements and their implications, cross-border tenders, preferential trade arrangements, offset obligations, and other related issues.