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Thai Natural Rubber: The Beating Heart of the Global Tire Industry and New Opportunities in the EV Era

Mid-August Metal Heatwave: Tight Supply, New Global Demand Base Metals Price Outlook — August 17–21, 2026 SO OK TRADING — FAST | SHARP | RELIABLE The global base metals market is entering the hottest phase of the year. A weakening U.S. dollar, LME inventories plunging to multi-decade lows, and surging demand from AI industries, data centers, and power grid expansion are driving copper, aluminum, zinc, and lead prices to hold firm at elevated levels — with potential for further upside momentum. ⚙️ Weekly Highlights Copper: Strong bullish structure, testing resistance at $14,521 with a psychological target at $15,000. Aluminum: Tightest supply in 36 years; RSI signals overbought, yet energy demand keeps momentum alive. Zinc: Ascending triangle formation; a breakout above $3,880 could open the path to $4,000. Lead: Range-bound movement; best suited for short-term technical traders.

Golden Opportunities for Thai Agricultural Products in the Middle East: Rising Stars & Challenges in 2026 SO OK TRADING | 15 August 2026 In 2026, the Middle Eastern market remains a treasure trove of opportunities for Thai agricultural products. With 80–90% of food consumption dependent on imports due to limited arable land, the region’s demand for food security continues to surge, positioning Thailand as a key supplier. At the same time, geopolitical conflicts, regional instability, and strict sustainability standards have emerged as critical challenges, requiring Thai exporters to adapt quickly and strategically. This article explores: Thai agricultural products gaining strong momentum in Middle Eastern markets Key opportunities Thailand can leverage in 2026 Risk factors that demand close attention And the Outlook for five major agricultural products, reflecting the “Rising Stars & Declining Players” of this challenging year From tapioca pellets, now a rising star in Saudi Arabia, to sugar, which remains a staple across the region, and the shifting fortunes of Thai rice, molasses, and corn, each product faces unique opportunities and obstacles. SO OK TRADING stands ready as your trusted partner, helping you clearly identify market trends and build confident export strategies for 2026. SO OK TRADING — FAST • SHARP • RELIABLE

Business Insight: Copper in the Automotive Industry and Global Future (2026) SO OK TRADING | 14 AUG 2026 Copper has become a “strategic metal” driving the new era — from Electric Vehicles (EVs) to Renewable Energy and AI Data Centers. In 2026, global copper demand continues to surge, with prices reaching $11,000–13,500 per ton, forcing manufacturers worldwide to adapt strategies to maintain competitiveness.

Aluminium: The Future Material of the Global Automotive Industry SO OK TRADING | 14 August 2026 In an era where the world is shifting toward clean energy and electric vehicles (EVs), aluminium has emerged as a true strategic material reshaping the global automotive industry. With its unique properties — lightweight, strong, corrosion-resistant, and 100% recyclable — aluminium is no longer just an alternative. It has become the core of modern vehicle design, addressing both energy efficiency and environmental sustainability. The global automotive aluminium market is expanding rapidly, projected to grow from USD 31.9 billion in 2025 to over USD 63.8 billion by 2034, with an average annual growth rate of around 6%. Major global producers such as Novelis, Constellium, Hydro, Arconic, Chalco, and Alcoa are accelerating the development of low-carbon aluminium and Gigacasting technologies to meet the surging demand from the EV sector. In Thailand, although upstream aluminium smelting has yet to be established, the country holds significant potential in processing and component manufacturing. The Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) and leading companies such as Thai Summit Group are driving the automotive industry into a new era of Hybrid and EV supply chains. As a trusted global partner in metals and industrial materials, SO OK TRADING is committed to being part of this transformation. Guided by the principle FAST • SHARP • RELIABLE, we continue to deliver knowledge, technology, and new opportunities to Thai enterprises, empowering them to thrive in the clean energy era of the metals market.

ALUMINUM PACKAGING – Strategic Supply Partner SO OK TRADING — FAST • SHARP • RELIABLE In an era where the aluminum packaging industry is rapidly expanding, SO OK TRADING stands as a strategic partner, directly connecting global aluminum producers with the packaging markets in Thailand and ASEAN. We are more than just a “distributor” — we act as a Service Agent and Strategic Partner of leading producers such as ALCOA (Australia, USA), ALCOA MA’ADEN (Saudi Arabia), and ARCONIC (China – Bohai Plant), delivering high-quality raw materials that meet international standards to Thai manufacturers. ⚙️ Strengths of SO OK TRADING Guaranteed supply of over 20,000 MT/year of 3104 Aluminum Coil Smooth transition from ALCOA to ARCONIC Comprehensive coverage for Beverage & Food Packaging (3104, 3004, 5182, 5052) Strong support for New Product Development and After-Sales Service

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Aluminum: The Hero of Modern Packaging OUTLOOK 2027 | SO OK TRADING | August 12, 2026 The world is shifting into a new era of sustainability and the Circular Economy. By 2027, aluminum packaging will no longer be just an option — it will become the new global standard. Aluminum is emerging as the material of the future: lightweight, strong, infinitely recyclable, and capable of reducing carbon emissions by more than 85%. From ordinary beverage cans to smart packaging solutions, aluminum is redefining both environmental responsibility and modern lifestyles. SO OK TRADING has recognized this opportunity ahead of the curve. With deep expertise in the Non-Ferrous Metals market and a strong global network, we are your trusted partner in driving sustainable growth in the aluminum packaging industry.

“Copper Supercycle 2026: Copper as the Strategic Metal in the Era of AI and Clean Energy” Global copper prices are soaring to their highest levels in years, reflecting a structural transformation in the metals industry as it enters the “Copper Age of the Future.” In August 2026, the London Metal Exchange (LME) showed clear signs of Backwardation — with cash prices significantly higher than forward contracts, signaling tight supply and surging real demand.

Aluminium Surge 2026–2035: The Strategic Metal Powering the Future Economy SO OK TRADING | 12 August 2026 Global aluminium prices continue to soar! Driven by supply shortages and inventories at multi‑year lows, the market is entering the era of “the most expensive aluminium in a decade” — a metal that has become the backbone of the green economy and future technologies. In this report, SO OK TRADING presents a comprehensive view of the global market landscape, price drivers, short‑, mid‑, and long‑term outlook, and key industrial applications — enabling Thai businesses to plan procurement and manage costs with precision. Aluminium is no longer just a “light metal.” It is a strategic metal powering the world — from EVs and clean energy to AI infrastructure and the circular economy.

Thailand’s steel industry is at a critical turning point. With cheap steel imports flooding in from abroad and rising energy costs putting pressure on operations, Thai producers must adapt quickly to maintain competitiveness. SO OK TRADING’s 2026 outlook highlights that “Green Steel” (low-carbon steel) will be the key to revitalizing Thailand’s steel sector. Alongside this, the 4S Strategy will play a vital role in building a sustainable industrial ecosystem. In this article, we will explore: The current situation and challenges facing Thailand’s steel industry The 4S Strategy for sustainable production and global competitiveness Cost structures, profit margins, and steel price trends in 2026 Business insights and pathways toward Green Steel transformation ✨ SO OK TRADING — Your Trusted Business Partner FAST | SHARP | RELIABLE

Aluminum & Copper Recycling Market Booming: Business Opportunities and Competitive Strategies in the Circular Economy SO OK TRADING | 10 AUG 2026 In today’s global business landscape, competition is no longer measured solely by cost or quality — it’s defined by sustainability and environmental responsibility. The aluminum and copper recycling industry is emerging as a strategic treasure directly linked to the world’s Net Zero ambitions and the Circular Economy movement. Recycling these metals not only saves up to 90% of energy compared to primary extraction but also significantly reduces carbon emissions, transforming industrial waste into valuable resources. As global demand surges from electric vehicles, renewable energy, and eco-friendly packaging, recycled metals are becoming the cornerstone of a low-carbon economy. For Thailand, this transformation presents a golden opportunity. With strong industrial infrastructure, expanding SME recycling networks, and growing export potential to Europe and the United States, the nation is poised to become a regional leader in sustainable metal production

Global Markets Risk-Off – THB Strength, JPY Safe Haven, USD Weakness 10–14 August 2026: Weekly Currency Outlook By SO OK TRADING This week, global markets have fully entered a Risk-Off mode. Weak U.S. labor data triggered a sharp decline in the U.S. Dollar, while investors shifted into safe-haven assets such as the Japanese Yen and Gold. Meanwhile, the Thai Baht broke below 33 THB/USD, marking its strongest level in six weeks. Global fund flows are shifting direction: investors are reducing exposure to high-risk technology stocks and reallocating into safer assets. The Thai equity market remains range-bound, though refinery and export sectors continue to benefit from elevated oil prices. In this article, SO OK TRADING provides a comprehensive overview of major currencies (USD, EUR, GBP, JPY, CNY, AUD), along with short-term outlooks and strategies for importers, exporters, and investors seeking to adjust portfolios amid heightened volatility in mid-August. SO OK TRADING — FAST • SHARP • RELIABLE

Aluminum Ingot — The Strategic Core of the Modern Metal Industry With its lightweight nature, corrosion resistance, and excellent thermal conductivity, aluminum ingot has become a key “strategic metal” powering today’s manufacturing world — from automotive and construction to electronics and high‑tech applications. It is the essential material behind countless innovations across modern industry. In this article, SO OK TRADING explores:

Aluminium 3104: The Strategic Material Shaping the Future of Global Packaging Insights by SO OK TRADING | 8 AUG 2026 In a world where sustainability has become the core of every industry, Aluminium 3104 is driving a major transformation in the global beverage can packaging sector. With its unique combination of being lightweight, strong, food-safe, and 100% recyclable, it is far more than just a metal — it is the “heartbeat of modern beverage cans” that aligns perfectly with ESG and Net Zero goals. SO OK TRADING brings you in-depth insights into:

ZINC INGOT 2026–2027: The Strategic Metal of the New Industrial Era Knowledge Insight by SO OK TRADING | 8 AUG 2026 ✨ Overview & Properties Zinc Ingot is pure zinc refined and cast into silver-blue metallic blocks. It serves as a fundamental raw material across global industries — from galvanized steel and alloys to clean energy and advanced electronics. Key Properties

ALUMINUM SOW — The Pillar of the Modern Aluminum Industry SO OK TRADING : 7 AUG 2026 As the world advances toward clean energy and the electric vehicle (EV) revolution, aluminum has emerged as a true strategic metal powering every innovation. Among its most powerful forms stands the Aluminum SOW (Sow Ingot). These massive ingots, weighing between 400–1,000+ kilograms, are the foundation feedstock shaping the future of global metal industries — from EV casting plants and rolling mills to high‑voltage power lines and steelmaking. The strength of SOW lies in its efficiency: melting large volumes at once, saving energy, and offering the lowest unit cost among aluminum forms. Its limitation, however, is that it suits only large‑scale foundries equipped with heavy lifting cranes and powerful furnaces. Today, SO OK TRADING presents a comprehensive outlook on the modern aluminum market — spanning SOW, T-Bar, and Small Ingot, alongside key megatrends such as Gigacasting, Circular Economy, and Green Aluminum, which are reshaping the industry worldwide. ✨ SOW = The King of Cost Efficiency ⚙️ T-Bar = The Logistics & Electrification Partner

Copper Fever 2026: Global Copper Outlook SO OK TRADING : 6 AUGUST 2026 The year 2026 has been hailed as the “Year of Strategic Metals,” with copper standing at the forefront as a symbol of global economic power and future technology. Copper prices remain in a Structural Bull Market, trading at a high range of $11,000–$14,000 per ton, driven by strong demand from AI, Data Centers, Electric Vehicles (EVs), and clean energy infrastructure worldwide. Yet, the path is far from smooth. In the second half of the year, U.S. import tariffs and a slowdown in Chinese demand are expected to weigh on the market, potentially leading to a “consolidation phase” after the heated rally in the first half. This analysis dives deep into the quarterly copper price outlook (Q3–Q4/2026), while also exploring key drivers and risks, industry impacts, and the rise of copper substitutes that are reshaping the industrial landscape. Prepare to navigate a copper market that is truly “heating up the world” and uncover strategies that businesses must know to seize opportunities in this golden year for copper. SO OK TRADING : FAST • SHARP • RELIABLE Your trusted partner in the non-ferrous metals industry

Cassava Renaissance: Thailand’s Cassava Chips & Pellets Transformation to the Global Market 2026–2030 SO OK TRADING | 5 AUGUST 2026

Global Oil & Energy Outlook 2026: From War Premium to the Clean Energy Era SO OK TRADING | August 5, 2026 Global oil prices are entering a critical turning point — shifting from geopolitical pressures toward a new balance in the global energy market. WTI has fallen below $76/barrel and Brent below $80/barrel, marking the lowest in three weeks and reflecting a clear Bearish Trend this quarter.

China Aluminum Powerhouse: Driving the Future of Global Packaging with Innovation China continues to dominate as the world’s aluminum leader, commanding over 57% of global production capacity. From its industrial hubs in Henan, Shandong, and Jiangsu, China has advanced cutting-edge rolling and coating technologies, positioning itself as the backbone of the global packaging industry. In this article, SO OK TRADING takes you inside:

Non-Ferrous Supercycle : SO OK TRADING “All Green Across the Board! Global Non-Ferrous Metals Surge — Weak Baht + Metal Rally = A New Cost Crisis for Thai Businesses” The global non-ferrous metals market is entering a major upward cycle (Supercycle). Driven by the expansion of the clean energy economy and the transition into the high-tech era, copper, aluminium, nickel, tin, and silver are all surging — “all green across the board” — reflecting massive demand from EVs, data centers, and green metal industries worldwide. Meanwhile, the Thai baht has weakened to 33.397 per USD, further amplifying the cost burden for importers. The combination of soaring global prices and unfavorable exchange rates is pushing raw material costs in Thailand sharply higher. SO OK TRADING provides an in-depth analysis of global metal market trends and their impact on Thai businesses, along with strategic solutions — from hedging against currency risks to restructuring cost bases in industries where metals are essential.

Laos: The Resource & Agriculture Powerhouse of Asia SO OK TRADING | August 3, 2026 Laos is emerging as the “Rising Star of ASEAN’s Economy”, driven by immense potential in both mining and commercial agriculture. With more than 500 mineral deposits, the country is a major producer of copper, gold, potash, and rare earths. At the same time, the agricultural sector generated over USD 1 billion in export revenue during the first half of 2026. From world‑class copper mines such as Phu Kham and Sepon, to agricultural champions like cassava, bananas, coffee, and durian, Laos is powering its economy through infrastructure development, the Laos–China Railway, and preferential tax policies that open trade doors across Asia. ✨ Laos is not just a “resource‑rich nation” — it is becoming the future hub of raw materials and food supply in the region. SO OK TRADING — Your Trusted Business Partner FAST • SHARP • RELIABLE