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In partnership with the alumina and aluminium producer Alcoa Corporation, governments and industrial representatives of Australia, Japan and the US have reached the final investment decision (FID) for a project to establish a gallium production facility at Alcoa's Wagerup alumina refinery in Western Australia.
{alcircleadd}The plant, to be built and operated by Alcoa, will utilise the company's expertise in alumina refining and advanced mineral processing to produce gallium, a critical mineral used extensively in semiconductors, defence systems and other advanced technologies.
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The project is expected to create a dependable alternative source of gallium, supporting the three partner governments' efforts to diversify global critical mineral supply chains amid growing demand and concentrated global production.
William F. Oplinger, President and Chief Executive Officer of Alcoa, said the project demonstrates the collective commitment of governments and industry to strengthening strategic mineral security.
"This final investment decision reflects a shared commitment by governments and industry to strengthen critical mineral supply chains among the partners," Oplinger said.
He added, "The project underscores the strategic importance of Western Australia and the role Alcoa's operations play in delivering critical materials essential to the global economy."
Construction is scheduled to begin after the completion of final site preparations. Alcoa confirmed that its participation in the joint venture, including its responsibilities as construction and operating manager, is not expected to materially affect the company's financial position or operating results.
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