EGA signs agreement with Shaheen Chem for supply of caustic soda to Al Taweelah alumina refinery

Emirates Global Aluminium (EGA) has signed a supply agreement with Shaheen Chem Investments LLC which paves the way for the construction by Shaheen of a chemical complex in Khalifa Industrial Zone Abu Dhabi. Upon completion, Shaheen’s ethylene dichloride and caustic soda plant will supply caustic soda output to EGA’s Al Taweelah alumina refinery for a period of 15 years.

Abdulla Kalban said: “The construction of a caustic soda plant next to our alumina refinery guarantees our supply of this vital raw material at competitive prices for years to come. I am pleased that EGA’s demand for caustic soda is creating further industrial expansion in Abu Dhabi, continuing EGA’s long-standing contribution to the diversification of our economy as we grow our own business.”

Ethylene dichloride and caustic soda manufacturing is a new industry for KIZAD and construction of the plant is expected to boost KIZAD’s role as an industrial centre for Abu Dhabi and the UAE. The production capacity of the first phase of the plant is expected to be 130,000 tonnes per year of caustic soda and 160,000 tonnes per year of ethylene dichloride.

EGA is currently building Al Taweelah alumina refinery next to its Al Taweelah aluminium smelter. Al Taweelah alumina refinery is the first to be built in the UAE and will meet 40 per cent of EGA’s alumina requirements.