AlCircle News Edited By "Rupankar Majumder"
A professional with a technical background, specialising in producing insightful content centred around metals, particularly aluminium, passionately engaged in the intricacies of the recycling sector.
AMAG Austria Metall AG surpasses economic challenges, reports improved EBITDA and market agility
AMAG Group demonstrated remarkable resilience in Q3 2024 despite the ongoing economic challenges in Europe, achieving 8 per cent year-over-year growth in EBITDA. The Metal Division maintained a strong earnings performance across the first three quarters, underscoring the Group's stability in a fluctuating market. The Casting Division saw earnings fall short of last year, but overall quality remained strong despite persistent headwinds in the automotive industry. Meanwhile, the Rolling Division capitalised on market opportunities, demonstrating remarkable flexibility that helped mitigate volume and price pressures in the current reporting period. Dr Helmut Kaufmann, CEO of AMAG Austria Metall AG, said, "With the economic situation in many European countries remaining subdued, we have so...
Metro Mining achieves record Q3 shipments, 50% growth from Q2 2024
Metro Mining Limited has reported a standout third-quarter operational update for 2024, marking a record-breaking period for the company's bauxite production. The company achieved quarterly shipments of 2.13 million wet metric tonnes (WMT), a substantial 50 per cent increase over Q2 2024 and a 32 per cent rise compared to Q3 2023. This brings Metro's total output for the calendar year to 3.7 million WMT, setting the company on track to reach the lower end of its 6.0 to 6.4 million WMT guidance range, subject to weather conditions. Key components of Metro's flow sheet, including mining, screening, the barge loading facility, and transhipping, are now operating above budgeted rates, boosting Metro's confidence in achieving a production rate of 7 million WMT per annum by 2025. The company's...
Oman Cables makes strategic move with USD$4.94 million investment in OAPIL, promising sustained growth
Oman Cables Industry SAOG, a premier cable manufacturing company based in Al Rusayl Industrial City, has committed an investment of RO 1.9 million (USD$4.94 million) into its subsidiary, Oman Aluminium Processing Industries SPC (OAPIL). This strategic initiative, approved by the Board of Directors, is expected to yield a 75 per cent internal rate of return (IRR) over three years, according to a recent filing with the Muscat Stock Exchange (MSX). The substantial investment will facilitate the establishment of a cutting-edge production facility in Sohar to manufacture advanced composite core conductors. These innovative conductors are designed to enhance energy grids' capacity, reliability, and resilience, supporting the global shift towards sustainable energy solutions. Cinzia Farisè,...
Winstar Capital Bhd secures ACE Market listing, aiming to increase market share in aluminium extrusion
Winstar Capital Bhd has received the green light from Bursa Malaysia Securities Bhd to proceed with its listing on the ACE Market, scheduled for the fourth quarter of 2024. This strategic move marks a significant milestone for Winstar, positioning it for further growth within Malaysia’s dynamic industrial sector. Winstar operates as a primary investment holding company, overseeing subsidiaries active in diverse sectors, including aluminium profile extrusion, ladder fabrication, and building materials trading and distribution. Additionally, Winstar’s portfolio includes solar photovoltaic (PV) system installation services and trading solar PV-related materials and accessories. The initial public offering (IPO) comprises 73.95 million ordinary shares, representing 25.5 per cent of Winstar’s...
China to EU: Stand-alone EV talks could undermine broader trade relations
China has issued a renewed warning to the European Union (EU), cautioning that any separate discussions with individual electric vehicle (EV) companies outside ongoing bilateral negotiations could harm the trust underpinning broader trade relations. The statement from China's Ministry of Commerce, released on October 28, 2024, follows similar remarks made earlier this month, emphasising that such unilateral moves by the EU could disrupt the ongoing dialogue and mutual understanding essential to trade negotiations, as reported by Reuters. This latest caution from Beijing comes just days after both parties agreed to continue technical discussions to find alternatives to potential tariffs on Chinese EV imports. While both sides have publicly confirmed that price commitments remain the...
A strong start at ICSOBA 2024: Day-1 technical conference highlighted future-ready aluminium solutions
The ICSOBA 2024 day-1 technical conference commenced on October 28, 2024, following the registration and welcome reception on October 27, 2024. This marked an exciting start to three days of advanced discussions and deep dives into the evolving landscape of the aluminium industry. This year’s event, set against a backdrop of rapid technological progress and sustainability drives, offers an enriched programme segmented into four specialised streams, each spotlighting critical themes shaping the aluminium industry. The opening day began with keynote addresses, where industry leaders presented forward-looking insights, trends, and actionable strategies set to influence the future of aluminium. These keynotes underscored the industry's commitment to sustainable practices, including...
ICSOBA 2024 begins in Lyon: Where tradition meets tomorrow in aluminium!
The International Committee for Study of Bauxite, Alumina, and Aluminum (ICSOBA) 2024 commenced on October 27, 2024, with a remarkable opening address by Dr. Frank Feret, Chairman of the Supervisory Board, Treasurer, ICSOBA. The event has already made waves, with over 570 in-person registrations and 18 exhibitors showcasing their innovations and services. Held in the picturesque city of Lyon, the conference commenced with a delightful cocktail reception sponsored by Tokai Cobex, setting a vibrant tone for the days ahead. This year's conference has attracted diverse professionals from across the primary aluminium ecosystem, including bauxite and alumina experts. With environmental and economic sustainability as the central themes, ICSOBA 2024 promises to be a pivotal gathering for industry...
Will Guinea’s bauxite industry mirror Indonesia’s strategic export shift?
The bauxite mining subsidiary of one of the leading aluminium producers recently announced the suspension of its bauxite export operations from Port Kamsar (GNKMR). However, there has been no official justification for the move. How can it impact the Guinean workforce? Despite possessing the world's largest bauxite reserves, the highest-grade iron ore, and significant diamond and gold resources, Guinea remains one of the poorest countries in the world. The move raises serious concerns for the future of its Guinean workforce, with potential repercussions for local employment and the broader economic landscape. According to sources close to the situation, this operation pause could lead to significant job losses if not promptly resolved. It is important to note that these types of mining...
New roadmap for Vietnam’s aluminium profile sector unveiled at 2nd National Congress in Hanoi
The 2 nd Congress of the Association of Aluminium Profile Manufacturers for Construction and Industry of Vietnam commenced, gathering industry leaders to set a transformative agenda for the next five years (2024-2029). In a relatively young but rapidly growing sector, the Vietnamese aluminium industry has doubled its output in the last seven years to a remarkable 1.3 million tonnes annually, establishing itself as a formidable player in the domestic and global markets. Vietnam's aluminium profile manufacturers have invested significantly in quality improvements, emerging from a base of small and medium-sized enterprises, primarily with 100 per cent domestic capital. They have dominated the domestic market and established a burgeoning reputation internationally. Many young Vietnamese...
New insights into aluminium alloy nanostructures could lead to more efficient, durable electric vehicles
Researchers at the University of Michigan have made a significant breakthrough in developing an advanced aluminium alloy that could reshape automotive manufacturing, particularly for electric and fuel-efficient vehicles. By adding minuscule titanium carbide (TiC) particles directly into molten aluminium, they’ve created a metal matrix nanocomposite that addresses a long-standing challenge: aluminium’s instability at high temperatures. This new material is stronger and more heat-resistant, making it a viable alternative to heavier steel and a pathway to lighter, more efficient vehicles. For years, engineers have aimed to replace steel in automotive structures with aluminium alloys due to their lightweight properties, which could boost fuel efficiency and extend the range of electric...
West Africa’s Capesize growth hits new heights: Bauxite, iron ore, and manganese propel the region forward
West Africa, led by Guinea, is rapidly becoming a key supplier of bulk cargo for the Capesize shipping trades, bolstered by China's expanding electric vehicle (EV) industry. With Capesize and larger shipments from the region rising at an annual rate of 19.6 per cent since 2018, analysts at broker BRS project West African exports could exceed 150 million tonnes in 2024. The region's largest contribution comes from Guinea, but other nations are also seeing significant growth. Mauritania, Africa's second-largest iron ore producer, along with Sierra Leone, Ghana, and Gabon, now accounts for approximately 20 per cent of Capesize and above cargo volumes leaving West Africa. Notably, Ghana's iron ore exports surged by 76 per cent in the first nine months of this year. Gabon has tapped into the...
Aluminium and copper prices set to rise: Goldman Sachs raises 2025 outlook following China's demand stimulus
In a significant upward revision, the leading global investment banking, securities, and asset and wealth management firm, Goldman Sachs, has enhanced its 2025 price forecasts for aluminium and copper, driven by increased demand potential in China, the world's largest consumer of these metals. The investment banking giant has adjusted its 2025 average aluminium price outlook to $2,700 per tonne, up from the previous forecast of $2,540 per tonne. Meanwhile, the average copper price forecast has also seen a rise, now set at $10,160 per tonne, an increase from $10,100. These changes come as the London Metal Exchange (LME) reports aluminium trading near $2,634.50 a tonne, following a peak of $2,715—the highest level since May 31. LME copper is currently trading at $9,510.50 a tonne. Goldman...
Kodak's call for tariffs answered: US to impose hefty duties on imported aluminium printing plates
The United States International Trade Commission (USITC) has confirmed significant tariffs on imported aluminium printing plates from China and Japan, responding to concerns that unfairly low-priced imports are harming the lone remaining US producer, Kodak. The tariffs are expected to impact around $100 million in imports, a move to safeguard domestic industry jobs and production standards. The conflict dates back to last year, when Kodak, now the last standing US manufacturer of aluminium printing plates, filed a petition claiming that the prices of imported plates were severely undercutting the market. The company argued that Chinese and Japanese plates are priced "unfairly low," damaging US competitiveness and production sustainability. This week, the USITC supported Kodak's concerns,...
Gränges completes strategic acquisition of Shandong Innovation Group in China
On October 25, 2024, Gränges announced the completion of a strategic acquisition in China, marking a milestone in its expansion and strengthening its footprint in Asia’s burgeoning electrification market. Agreed initially upon in May 2024 with Shandong Innovation Group (SIG), this acquisition secures Gränges, a state-of-the-art casting and hot-rolling facility in Shandong province. This move significantly bolsters Gränges’ production capacity for high-demand electrification solutions, including battery casings, foil, and cooling plates—all essential for supporting global transitions toward sustainable energy. The acquisition provides Gränges with scalable downstream capabilities and a reliable supply of low-carbon aluminium, aligning with its commitment to sustainability and resource...
Century Aluminum backs Biden's push for U.S. critical mineral production under the Inflation Reduction Act
Global metals and mining company focused on bauxite, alumina, and aluminium, Century Aluminum, commends the Biden Administration for finalising the guidance on the Advanced Manufacturing Production Credit (Section 45X of the Inflation Reduction Act). This pivotal move strengthens U.S. production of critical minerals, including primary aluminium, reinforcing the nation's leadership in sustainable manufacturing, and securing the supply chain for essential materials. Jesse E. Gary, President, Chief Executive Officer, and Director at Century Aluminum, said, "We are pleased the final rules include certain raw materials as part of our production costs in calculating the tax credit that we, along with many other stakeholders, requested. This reinforces the administration's steadfast support of...
Alba appoints top advisors for Maaden merger due diligence: Financial, technical, and commercial experts named
Aluminium Bahrain B.S.C. (Alba) has taken significant steps toward exploring a potential merger with the Saudi Arabian Mining Company (Maaden), appointing several top-tier advisors to guide the due diligence process. In a disclosure to the Bahrain Bourse, Alba confirmed the appointment of Moelis & Company UK LLP as its financial advisor, Hatch as its technical advisor, and McKinsey & Company to provide commercial guidance. PricewaterhouseCoopers Bahrain Ltd. will serve as financial and tax advisors, while Teneo will handle public relations. Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer LLP has been named the legal advisor for the process. Alba reiterated its commitment to transparency and adherence to all regulatory requirements, assuring that updates will be provided as the evaluation progresses. With...
China eases restrictions on recycled aluminium, copper imports starting November 15, 2024
According to an announcement from the Ministry of Ecology and Environment (MEE), China will permit the import of recycled aluminium and copper materials that meet specified standards starting November 15, 2024. This move is part of China's broader efforts to drive the high-quality development of its metals recycling sector, reflecting the country's commitment to sustainability and resource efficiency. The ministry clarified in a statement that recycled copper and aluminium materials that adhere to the required guidelines will no longer be classified as solid waste. This distinction will allow for the unrestricted import of these materials, streamlining the process for international trade and promoting the recycling industry's growth. This policy shift underscores China's increasing focus...
Alumina powder production in Iran hits 96,685 tonnes from March to August: IMIDRO
Iran's alumina powder production reached 96,685 tons in the first five months of the current Iranian calendar year, running from March 20 to August 21, as reported by the Iranian Mines and Mining Industries Development and Renovation Organisation (IMIDRO). Despite ongoing economic and geopolitical challenges, this steady output reflects the country's commitment to maintaining a robust position in the global alumina market. The alumina sector, vital for Iran's aluminium industry, continues to play a key role in the country's industrial strategy. In 2023, it was reported that 80 per cent of Iran's domestic demand for alumina was met through imports, which cost $1 billion annually. On the global stage, alumina prices have shown signs of strengthening, driven by supply constraints and...
