AlCircle News Edited By "Staff Editor"
"We aim to help producers stay focused, responsive, and aligned with their strategic objectives," Dror Shaked, STAS
Dror Shaked, Vice President of Strategy at STAS, has opened up in an interview with AL Circle for its LeaderSpeak 2025 e-magazine, highlighting his perspective on the company’s unique position as a fully integrated OEM rooted in Canada’s Aluminium Valley, with over 35 years of hands-on innovation. STAS’s multidisciplinary expertise and strong partnerships- such as with Rio Tinto and FOUNDRY ECOCER- enable it to deliver advanced, field-driven technologies and collaborative solutions, helping aluminium producers navigate global volatility with resilience and long-term vision. Here’s an intriguing part of the conversation: AL Circle: In a landscape where many strong players contribute to the advancement of aluminium production, what sets STAS apart in terms of its approach to innovation? How...
"India’s billet production is indeed rising rapidly, but downstream demand – especially from infrastructure and construction – has not kept pace," Abhijit Pati
Presenting an interview excerpt of Abhijit Pati, two times gold medallist from prestigious institutes like Calcutta University and International Management Institute (IMI), New Delhi. Abhijit Pati worked in an aluminium complex (Odisha) with a 2 million tonne annual capacity, 3615 MW Power generation, annual revenue of USD 2 billion, EBIDTA of USD 800 million, and 12000 direct and indirect head counts with gender diversity of 15%. At Balco, Chhattisgarh led a 600,000-tonne aluminium facility with a 2000 MW power base with 100KTPA aluminium rolled product as Whole-timeDirector and Member of the Balco Board and conceptualised 1MnT Club journey of Balco as 6 th largest single location aluminium smelter in the globe with best in class leading edge technology. Driving 8000 direct and indirect...
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“…commitments made by FMC members are subject to the availability of material supply,” Jelena Aleksić, First Movers Coalition, World Economic Forum
Jelena Aleksić, Metals Lead for Aluminium and Steel at the First Movers Coalition under the World Economic Forum, shares critical insights on accelerating sustainable aluminium adoption in our latest issue of LeadSpeak 2025 e-magazine. She highlights how corporate purchasing commitments create powerful demand signals that drive decarbonisation technologies. Jelena emphasises the coalition’s focus on breakthrough innovations like inert anodes and carbon capture, essential for achieving net-zero aluminium by 2050 despite supply and cost challenges. AL Circle: One of the core strategies of First Movers Coalition is leveraging corporate purchasing commitments to accelerate demand for low-carbon materials. Can you share insights into how committed buyers influence aluminium suppliers and what...
"From the outset, ACT has targeted critical, quality, and high-value segments such as aerospace, automotive, and beverage cans because we believe that our technologies will be of greater benefit to the end user in these applications," John Courtenay, Chairman of MQP & CEO of MQP International Ltd and co-director of ACT
In conversation with John Courtenay, Chairman of MQP & CEO of MQP International Ltd and co-director of ACT, who has highlighted the innovations they have adopted to transform casthouse operations in our e-Magazine ‘ Aluminium LeaderSpeak 2025 ’. He also noted that China and the United States were the highest adopters of their technologies for the aerospace, automotive, and beverage cans industries. In 1986, Mr Courtenay switched from steel to aluminium, starting a long association with aluminium casthouse technology as director of technology and marketing of Foseco Aluminium. After selling this business to Pyotek, he used his experience to form ACT, a family firm celebrating its 10th anniversary in 2026. Here is an excerpt of his interview with us. AL Circle: ACT products are used by...
“With global aluminium demand expected to nearly double by 2050, the need for increased bauxite mining and alumina refining remains essential,” Marghanita Johnson, Chief Executive Officer, the Australian Aluminium Council.
In our latest e-Magazine LeaderSpeak 2025 , Marghanita Johnson, the Chief Executive Officer at the Australian Aluminium Council, has discussed the importance of having increased alumina refineries and bauxite mining. She also adds her key takeaways on the need to reach the target of net zero in the mining sector. The further interview also unfolds strategies for conducting sustainable bauxite mining. Unlock the entire interview, refer to the e-Magazine. AL Circle: Why is sustainable bauxite mining important in achieving global emissions reductions? Marghanita Johnson: Australia has more than 60 years of technical experience in bauxite mining and alumina refining technologies. This deep knowledge benefits not only our domestic industry but also our global customers as they work towards...
“The situation with trade tariffs at the beginning of the year has certainly sparked a period of volatility and uncertainty, which is never good for business!” Michael Clinch, Managing Director at INNOVAL TECHNOLOGY
Professor Michael Clinch, Managing Director at INNOVAL TECHNOLOGY, brings over 25 years of global experience at the forefront of manufacturing and advanced materials. A visionary strategist and changemaker, he’s known for energising teams, championing innovation, and delivering tangible results. He shares his expertise, which spans across strategic planning, technology road mapping, product development, and innovation leadership, through an engaging interview with AL Circle for its 7th edition of LeaderSpeak e-magazine . Here’s a sneak peek into the persona’s insights and beyond into his firm belief in the power of collaboration. AL Circle: In the face of the rapidly evolving global aluminium industry, how do you help companies future-proof their operations and stay competitive? What role...
"Aluminium customers operate in an environment where efficiency, reliability, and cost-effectiveness drive every decision," Wayne McVey, Director of Metals Process Fluids North America, Quaker Houghton
In an interview for the 7th edition of LeaderSpeak 2025 , Wayne McVey, Director of Metals Process Fluids North America, sheds light on the current challenges and future opportunities in the aluminium industry, addressing issues like tariff volatility, limited domestic capacity and the growing importance of recycling and process efficiency. He also discusses how Quaker Houghton is tackling these needs through innovative fluid technologies, digital solutions and a strong customer-focused strategy, with a clear goal of leading the aluminium hot rolling market. With over 30 years in technical leadership, sales and product management, McVey is now regarded as the market leader of the company’s hot-rolling business. Refer to the e-magazine for the full interview. AL Circle: What innovations or...
"The robots are the workhorses pulling the wagon, and the people, our colleagues, drive the wagon and tell them which way to go and how to get there," Michel Grootenboer of Gouda Refractories B.V.
Michel Grootenboer, the Director of Sales and Marketing at Gouda Refractories B.V., shared valuable insights in an enlightening interview for the 7th edition of AL Circle’s LeaderSpeak 2025 e-magazine. He discussed Gouda's history, current state, and future prospects, as well as his views on the industry, drawing from over 30 years of experience. Here are some key highlights from the detailed interview. AL Circle: From a leadership perspective, how are you aligning Gouda’s legacy with the brand’s global vision while ensuring continuity and innovation? How do you strike the right balance between tradition and transformation? Michel Grootenboer: As explained, Gouda Refractories and Gouda Refractories Group as a whole, including our service companies, will continue to operate as an...
“As industries demand more sustainable and cost-effective raw materials, scrap processing is now viewed as a strategic asset in industrial development,” Judit Jeney, Managing Director, Austin AI Europe
In the 7th edition of LeaderSpeak 2025 , AL Circle chats with Judit Jeney, the Managing Director of Austin AI Europe, to explore the intersection of cutting-edge technology and aluminium recycling. From LIBS-based sensor systems to redefining what AI really means in aluminium sorting, Judit offers a no-nonsense take on how smart sorting is powering the next wave of industrial sustainability. Here’s a glimpse into the future of scrap processing, direct from one of the industry’s sharpest voices. For the full interview, head to the e-magazine. AL Circle: How do you view the advancements in aluminium scrap processing for extracting aluminium and utilising it in industrial development? Judit Jeney: Aluminium scrap processing has come a long way. Advanced, modern technologies, such as the...
Beyond China, India and the Middle East are ready to play pivotal roles in shaping the future of global primary aluminium production: Éloïse Harvey, CEO of EPIQ Machinery
Éloïse Harvey, the dynamic CEO of EPIQ Machinery, has communicated with AL Circle for the seventh edition of its flagship annual digital magazine, ‘ LeaderSpeak 2025 ’ . Known for its curated perspectives from across the aluminium value chain, this year’s edition continues the tradition of bringing together influential voices to guide readers, be they decision-makers or emerging entrepreneurs, towards more informed and inspired choices. In her conversation, Harvey delves into how she and her team have consistently pushed boundaries by integrating cutting-edge technologies into EPIQ’s equipment portfolio. With her rich industry experience and forward-looking approach, Harvey offers valuable insights that could resonate with anyone navigating the evolving landscape of aluminium...
"We stay committed to achieving net-zero emissions in aluminium production by 2050 or earlier," Hanne Simensen, Executive Vice President, Hydro Aluminium Metal
In an insightful conversation with Hanne Simensen, Executive Vice President, Hydro Aluminium Metal, published in AL Circle's latest e-Magazine ' LeaderSpeak 2025 '. In a candid discussion, Ms Simensen offered a comprehensive perspective on the evolving aluminium landscape, emphasising the impact of global economic trends, decarbonisation policies, and shifting supply chain dynamics on the industry and Hydro's operations. Simensen underscored aluminium's growing significance as a critical material in addressing some of the world's most pressing challenges while highlighting Hydro's active role in forging strategic partnerships, particularly in pursuit of achieving net-zero emissions in aluminium production by 2050 or earlier. She also took us through the transformative role of technology,...
“The global aluminium smelting market is expected to reach $131.3 billion by 2030, at a CAGR of approximately 5.3%,” Bruce Roger Wilson, Director, Aluminium Division - REEL International
Here's an excerpt of an interview with REEL from our flagship e-Magazine ' LeaderSpeak 2025 ', an annual publication designed and tailored to highlight the market prospect for the year under review. In this interview, Bruce Roger Wilson, Director of Aluminium Division – REEL International, underscored the promising trajectory of global aluminium smelting, citing a growth at a 5.3 per cent CAGR. Wilson expressed confidence in the sector's momentum and REEL's preparedness to meet this rising aluminium demand, offering end-to-end solutions for the entire value chain, including advanced pot room equipment to cutting-edge control systems. He also conveyed a positive market outlook for primary aluminium production, driven by the increasing demand for lightweight materials in automotive,...
Global Aluminium Industry Outlook 2025: What’s ahead and why it matters
The aluminium industry in 2025 stands at a pivotal juncture, shaped by evolving market dynamics, geopolitical uncertainties, and the accelerating drive toward sustainability. Stakeholders must navigate these complexities to position themselves for a transformative year ahead. The "Global Aluminium Industry Outlook 2025" provides a comprehensive view of the industry, offering data-driven insights that outline both opportunities and looming threats across production, consumption, and market trends. Whether industry leaders, investors, or policymakers read this report, it will be more than another forecast. The global aluminium market size from 2025-2030, with a projected value of $355 billion by the end of the forecast period. The market is anticipated to expand at a compound annual growth...
SMM alumina price surged by RMB 189/t in three months, up by RMB18/t today; A00 aluminium ingot price ascends to RMB20,380/t
According to the Shanghai Metal Market (SMM), today, the week initiated with a surge in average prices of raw materials like alumina by RMB 18 per tonne to reach RMB 4,092 per tonne. This increased the price by RMB 189 per tonne in three months from RMB 3,903 per tonne. The price has expanded in some of the key regions. Like in Guizhou, the average price reached RMB 4,075 per tonne, up by RMB 25 per tonne from the previous day. Henan, Shanxi, and Shandong regions experienced price growth by RMB 20 per tonne. This brings the average price to RMB 4160 per tonne in Shanxi, RMB 4080 per tonne in Henan and RMB 4050 per tonne in Shandong. Also, in Guangxi, the price has inclined minorly by RMB 5 per tonne to officially close at RMB 4,050 per tonne. Also, raw materials like imported bauxite...
SMM alumina price surged consecutively for 12 days by RMB 132/t, with A00 aluminium ingot price ascending by RMB 320/t today
According to the Shanghai Metal Market (SMM), today, the weekends have a surge in average prices of raw materials like alumina by RMB 16 per tonne, reaching RMB 4,074 per tonne. This brings the price higher by RMB 158 per tonne in one month from RMB 3,916 per tonne. The price has increased in some of the key regions. Like in Guizhou, the average price reached RMB 4,050 per tonne, up by RMB 25 per tonne from the previous day. Henan, Shanxi, and Guangxi regions experience price hikes of RMB 20 per tonne, RMB 15 per tonne and RMB 10 per tonne to officially close at RMB 4,060 per tonne, RMB 4,140 per tonne and RMB 4,045 per tonne respectively. Also, Australian alumina FOB price has ascended by US$ 5 per tonne after two weeks, bringing the price higher by US$ 29 per tonne with an average of...
SMM alumina price sees growth by RMB 15/t while A00 aluminium ingot price drops by RMB 170/t
According to the Shanghai Metal Market, the price of raw materials like alumina has again surged by RMB 15 per tonne, bringing the average price to RMB 4,058 per tonne. Also, in some regions, the alumina price is high, like in Shanxi, where the price has improved by RMB 25 per tonne to peg at RMB 4,125 per tonne. In Henan and Shandong, the average price is up by RMB 15 per tonne and RMB 20 per tonne to officiate at RMB 4,040 per tonne and RMB 4,030 per tonne. In both Guizhou and Guangxi, the average price has soared by RMB 10 per tonne to close at RMB 4,025 per tonne and RMB 4,035 per tonne. The aluminium ingot market has been facing considerable fluctuation recently. The Shanghai Metal Market (SMM) A00 aluminium ingot price on September 26, 2024, registered at RMB 19,990 per tonne,...
SMM A00 aluminium ingot price skyrockets by RMB 360/t along with a surge in imported bauxite by US$ 0.03/t
According to the Shanghai Metals Market (SMM) survey, as of 25th September 2024, China’s average A00 aluminium ingot price has skyrocketed by RMB 360 per tonne to reach RMB 20,160 per tonne. This huge increase brings the average price higher W-o-W by RMB 370 per tonne from RMB 19,790 per tonne. The average prices may range between RMB 20,140 per tonne and RMB 20,180 per tonne. The spot contract is likely to be traded at a discount price of RMB 70 per tonne to RMB 30 per tonne, with an average of RMB 50 per tonne. China’s low carbon aluminium price has increased significantly, with RMB 404 per tonne close at RMB 21,034 per tonne. The prices for high-purity aluminium (99.99% and 99.996%) have also jumped by RMB 400 per tonne to officiate at RMB 27,200 per tonne and RMB 28,200 per tonne,...
SMM alumina price continues its growth trajectory, ascending by RMB13/t; A00 aluminium ingot price jumps by RMB100/t
According to the Shanghai Metals Market (SMM) survey, as of September 24, 2024, the average alumina price has shown steady growth, indicating the growing demand for the raw materials. As of today, the alumina price has surged by RMB 13 per tonne to peg at RMB 4,039 per tonne. Region wise price rise for alumina: The average alumina price has increased in all regions except Henan, Lianyungang and Bayuquan. As per the SMM data, the price in Shanxi has heightened by RMB 25 per tonne with an average of RMB 4,085 per tonne. Shandong and Guizhou regions experienced a hike in price by RMB 10 per tonne to close at RMB 4,010 per tonne and RMB 4,015 per tonne, respectively. Also, in Guangxi, the price has increased by RMB 15 per tonne, averaging at RMB 4,025 per tonne. Rising demand from aluminium...
