In 2026, the global aluminum industry is at a critical juncture of profound transformation and strategic restructuring. As the world's largest aluminum producer — accounting for approximately 60% of global primary aluminum output — China's industry dynamics exert a decisive influence on global market patterns. The Chinese aluminum sector is currently navigating a complex landscape of challenges and opportunities, including the global allocation of resources amid rising import dependence, supply-demand dynamics in both alumina and primary aluminum, long-term contract trading models and risk management, as well as geopolitical tensions and trade barriers. Against this backdrop, China's aluminum industry faces an urgent imperative: to achieve breakthrough progress through technological innovation, to enhance efficiency and set new benchmarks through management upgrades, and ultimately to transition from a "scale-driven" advantage to a "quality-driven" leadership position — steadily advancing along the path of high-quality development. The AIAC 2026 SMM (15th) Aluminum Industry Annual Conference is scheduled to take place on October 12–13, 2026 in Guiyang, China. Organized by Shanghai Nonferrous Metals Information Technology Co., Ltd. (SMM), this annual event will focus on strategic global allocation of bauxite resources, innovation in long-term contract pricing mechanisms, optimization of price forecasting models, application of risk hedging instruments, pathways for energy transition, and the direction of technological advancements. The conference aims to assist industry players in seizing the opportunities presented by the "dual carbon" goals for high-quality development of the aluminum industry, thereby fostering sustainable and long-term industry growth.