Ireland reviews Aughinish’s 80% alumina export data with further scrutiny

Stock image for referential purposes only

Irish authorities are examining export data submitted by Aughinish Alumina after questions were raised over the volume of alumina shipped from the Limerick-based refinery to Russia.

The review follows reports that more than 80 per cent of Aughinish’s alumina exports during the first quarter of 2026 were destined for Russia. However, Ireland's Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Peter Burke, said the figures may not accurately reflect the company’s actual export distribution.

According to Burke, the proportion of exports sent to Russia was closer to 45 per cent, with a similar share supplied to European and other international markets.

Ireland’s Department of Enterprise confirmed it had been informed of a discrepancy in export volumes reported by the company and said Aughinish is working with relevant authorities to clarify the data.

The Central Statistics Office (CSO), which compiles Ireland's trade statistics, said it is seeking to establish whether revised figures will be submitted through customs authorities. The agency noted that export data is regularly reviewed and updated when necessary.

The issue has drawn attention because of Aughinish's position within the global aluminium supply chain.

Located in County Limerick, the refinery is the largest alumina refinery in Europe and remains a major supplier of raw material used in aluminium production. Industry representatives have repeatedly highlighted its importance to European manufacturing and industrial supply chains.

Explore: The most comprehensive and forward-looking industry-focused report – Global Bauxite & Alumina Market Forecast to 2036: Supply–Demand, Trade Flows & Price Outlook

Aughinish is owned by United Company Rusal, one of the world’s largest aluminium producers, which is part of the broader EN+ Group.

Alumina produced at the refinery is supplied to a network of aluminium smelters operated by Rusal, including facilities in Siberia. The alumina plant has reportedly become increasingly important to the company’s raw material supply system in recent years.

Alumina itself remains outside current European sanctions measures on Russia, allowing exports to continue under existing regulations.

Ireland’s government has maintained that alumina is not a restricted commodity under EU rules. Irish Taoiseach Micheál Martin has previously argued that any measures affecting the refinery could have wider implications for industrial activity, employment and raw material supply within Europe.

The refinery is one of the largest industrial employers in the Limerick region and plays a significant role in the local economy.

Trade data also show that Irish exports to Russia increased between 2021 and 2025, rising from EUR 539 million to EUR 836 million, an increase of approximately 55 per cent. Alumina has remained one of the key industrial products contributing to that trade.

Government officials have said the findings of the ongoing review will be shared with European authorities once the examination of the export figures is completed.

Explore our e-magazine ALuminium LeaderSpeak 2026 for the latest industry insights and trends.