Afsa claims local South African aluminium industry looks promising in future

The Aluminium Federation of South Africa (Afsa) is the body representing the country’s aluminium industry and according to them, in the next 5 years the local demand for rolled aluminium products will double and create new job opportunities in the industry as well.

Aluminium is increasingly becoming popular for its light weight that aids fuel efficiency in the automotive industry, its conductivity for the electric industry and its non-corrosive and non-poisonous quality for the food packaging industry.

According to the Afsa estimates, out of the total 171,000 tonnes of aluminium consumed in South Africa, 15.9% share went to packaging industry, 21.6% in the electric industry and around 14.2% in the automotive industry.

The recent switch from tin-plated steel cans to aluminium cans by the local beverage can manufacturer Nampak Bevcan has opened up another aspect of the market to explore promoting recycling and creating more jobs opportunities.

Afsa director, Mark Krieg says the local industry currently uses 54,000 tonnes of rolled aluminium products which is likely to rise by another 40,000 tonnes.

Mercedes Benz’s decision to use aluminium in body parts and other components for its C-Class line will further improve aluminium prospects in the country. In fact, Afsa will be displaying and highlighting the use of locally produced aluminium parts for the C-Class at the South African Automotive Week trade show next month to be held n Johannesburg.