Saudi aluminium demand to climb 1.8mt as World Cup projects boost construction
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Saudi Arabia’s domestic aluminium demand could rise to 1.8 million tonnes a year by 2030, up from around 1 million tonnes currently, according to Maaden’s executive vice president for aluminium, Ahmad al-Alshaikh. He expects that demand could potentially double over the next five to seven years.
Speaking at the Fastmarkets International Aluminium Conference in Budapest on Wednesday, al-Alshaikh said demand could potentially reach between 1.6 million and 1.8 million tonnes by the end of the decade.
Al-Alshaikh linked the expected growth to construction activity in Saudi Arabia, including projects connected with the country hosting major expositions and the 2034 FIFA World Cup. The tournament is expected to require 15 new stadiums, adding to demand for aluminium and other materials.
Maaden currently produces around 780,000 tonnes of primary aluminium and about 1 million tonnes of cast metal each year. The company sells around 85 per cent of its output in the domestic market, giving it a significant presence in Saudi Arabia’s aluminium supply.
Al-Alshaikh said the Middle East tension has had a limited impact on Maaden’s operations. He added that countries in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) have worked together to reduce the effects of the conflict on the region.
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