Can Oklahoma reshape US aluminium supply? EGA’s Ziad Fares explains the project
As the US seeks to rebuild its domestic aluminium production capacity, Emirates Global Aluminium (EGA) and Century Aluminum are advancing plans for a new primary aluminium smelter in Inola, Oklahoma, targeting more than 750,000 tonnes of annual production. In this exclusive conversation with AL Circle, Ziad Fares, Project Director for Oklahoma Primary Aluminum , discusses the project’s strategic rationale, progress towards a targeted construction start in early 2027, planned smelting technology, power and infrastructure requirements, investment considerations, and its potential impact on US aluminium supply chains. He also addresses environmental safeguards and stakeholder concerns. Fares brings more than 20 years of experience across engineering, strategy, finance, metals and mining, and...
The lower the aluminium content of the dross, the greater the aluminium recovery benefit RAME can achieve
In a recent conversation with AL Circle, Eric Lefebvre, Vice President of Business Development at Lefebvre Industri-AL, discussed the company’s approach to recovering and recycling aluminium residues and its role in advancing the circular economy. Based in Quebec, Lefebvre Industri-AL develops solutions, including RAME technology, that transform aluminium residues into reusable resources while helping producers reduce their environmental footprint and improve operational efficiency. With extensive experience in the industrial sector, Lefebvre works with aluminium producers, technology partners and other industry stakeholders to develop strategic partnerships and expand markets. His approach focuses on turning the industry’s environmental challenges into economically viable opportunities...
Grow with
AL Circle
"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...
“…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...
“Aluminium billets, primarily used in construction and transportation, are highly sought-after value-added products,” Fabio Martins, CEO – Billets, Vedanta Aluminium
Fábio Martins is the CEO of Billets at Vedanta Aluminium, India’s largest aluminium producer and a key player in the global metals sector. With over 25 years of experience in operations, sales, and strategic management across the aluminium value chain, Fábio brings deep industry expertise and a proven track record of operational excellence, business turnaround, and stakeholder engagement. Prior to joining Vedanta Aluminium, Fábio held several senior leadership roles at Alcoa, where he was most recently Operations Director for the Poços de Caldas site in Brazil. He was instrumental in leading transformative projects, including a $60 million transition to dry residue management and a $100 million impoundment de-characterisation initiative, both of which were delivered in close coordination...
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,...
“Minimalism and openness are key design trends on every customer’s checklist,” Ajay Balakrishna, Founder and CEO of Schon Doorways
Ajay Balakrishna, Founder and CEO of Schon Doorways, is an engineer by training, a passionate designer at heart and an entrepreneur by choice. With a deep-rooted passion for design innovation and engineering excellence, Ajay brings over a decade of experience in the architectural and building materials industry. In a chat with AL Circle, the business persona divulges about his inspiration, innovation and beyond. AL Circle: Let’s start by asking what inspired you to venture into the world of premium aluminium doors and windows and how the idea for Schon Doorways first came to life. Was there a particular gap in the market that caught your attention? Ajay Balakrishna: We observed that there is a gap in the Indian market, and that is precisely what became our inspiration for Schon Doorways....
“Recycled aluminium is not available in large volumes. Hence, virgin aluminium will be in demand, especially in a country like India, where, today, scrap has not reached that level of volume,” Vikram Handa, Managing Director, Epsilon Carbon Pvt Ltd
Vikram Handa established Epsilon Group in 2010, a prominent industrial conglomerate dedicated to advancing the global carbon black and battery materials sector. With a mission to decarbonise economies and foster cleaner technologies, the group has distinguished itself through its subsidiaries, Epsilon Carbon and Epsilon Advanced Materials. Under his stewardship, a state-of-the-art, fully integrated 320,000 TPA specialty carbon plant was inaugurated in 2017 in Bellary, Karnataka. The company later expanded into the Carbon Black segment, launching operations with a 115,000 TPA production capacity. This Integrated Carbon Complex boasts a 10 per cent lower carbon footprint than its global counterparts and operates as a zero water discharge facility. With aggressive expansion plans, Epsilon...
"I foresee huge growth for the platform economy, open talent and freelancing as more companies, organisations and individuals demand freedom, flexibility and choice as to when, where and how they work," Glen Hodgson, Founder and CEO of Free Trade Europa
Free Trade Europa is a think tank delving into the development of short, easily digestible thought pieces on key dossiers and acts as a commentator on European policy developments. The entity also prepares conferences, briefings and seminars relevant concerns. Glen Hodgson, Founder and CEO of Free Trade Europa, with over twenty-five years of experience in communications, public affairs, and lobbying, focuses on promoting free trade, liberalisation, and the rule of law within the European Union and internationally. Glen was previously responsible for the Nordics, Baltics and Central & Eastern Europe within an international communications agency. Prior to this, he worked for European institutions as well as governments, blue-chip international companies, startups and NGOs as a lobbyist,...
AL Circle x CETIZION Verifica: Internet of Things is indeed a strong pillar of sustainability and ESG initiatives
AL Circle presents an enriching conversation with Ganga C Sharma, Managing Director & CEO of CETIZION Verifica Pvt Ltd, wherein he shares his personal views on the sustainability practices of the Indian and global aluminium industry. According to Mr Sharma, India is leading by example, and the world is closely watching its activities and following its footsteps. He says IoT plays a critical role in sustainability and ESG initiatives, and also offers an exciting outlook on CBAM, describing it as a balance of risk and opportunities, depending on how the companies adapt to the new regulation. To know more of his unique and valuable insights, read the full interview. AL Circle: Could you please provide a brief overview of your company and the services you offer? Ganga C Sharma: Cetizion...
“We recognise that exemptions are not easily granted. Despite the challenges, it remains crucial to maintain open communication with US counterparts,” Helin Öcal & Djibril René from European Aluminium
Like us, you may also be concerned about the impact of the US aluminium and steel tariffs on cross-border trade dynamics. With numerous questions and uncertainties in mind, we reached out to Helin Öcal, Trade Manager, and Djibril René, Director of Industry & Market Intelligence at European Aluminium. They were patient in explaining the potential consequences of the 25 per cent tariffs while reassuring us that talks and negotiations would continue and solutions would likely emerge, as the aluminium industry cannot function without international supply chains. They also highlighted that new trade flow patterns would surface if the tariffs persist. It is now crucial to observe how governments and companies choose to respond. Stay tuned to the full interview with Ms Öcal and Mr Djibril René...
"Undoubtedly, the construction of a company like GALTCO will be one of the most important chapters in Colombia's industrial history,” Andrés Rojas, Country Manager at GALTCO
Andrés Rojas a mechanical engineer with over 30 years of international experience in project management, specialising in risk assessment, structuring, logistics, production, and industrial assembly. Currently leading the development of the GALTCO project, he brings strong leadership, strategic planning, and team management expertise. His skill set includes effective negotiation, conflict resolution, and a results-driven approach to business objectives. AL Circle: Can you briefly summarise the GALTCO Colombia project and its significance to Colombia's sustainable development goals? Andrés Rojas: Colombia is a country that has historically been highly dependent on its exports of oil, coal, and agricultural products, necessitating the implementation of economic diversification programs. Over...
