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World's Largest Aluminium Complex Moves Into Construction Phase In Saudi Arabia

14 July 2010
Riyadh -- The Saudi Arabian Mining Company ' Ma'aden ' and Alcoa have moved into construction phase of a joint technologically advanced aluminium complex at Ras Az-Zawr in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
On completion of the joint venture, it will become the worldss largest fully integrated aluminium complex.
In its initial phases, the joint venture will develop a fully integrated industrial complex, consisting of a bauxite mine at Al Ba'aitha and an alumina refinery, aluminum smelter and rolling mill on the Arabian Gulf coast at Ras Az Zawr.
Ground breaking has now officially begun to pave the way for construction of the smelter and rolling mill that will serve the packaging and other industries.
As regards the joint venture starting its construction phase, Abdullah Busfar, Ma'aden 's Vice President Aluminium SBU and Project Management said, The team have worked very hard over a long period of time to bring the project this far. It is a landmark day not only for Ma'aden and Alcoa but also for the aluminium industry in the Gulf and for the diversification of Saudi industry.
Ken Wisnoski, President Alcoa Global Primary Products, GEBA pointed to the progress that has been made since the joint venture was formed. “Little more than a few months ago, we had an empty space on a map, an ambitious idea of the future and a combined team of dedicated, energized people.
We also had the visionary commitment of the Kingdom's government to the establishment of world-class infrastructure at Ras az Zawr. Now everything is coming together on schedule. In the near future, the place where we stand today will become the regional hub of the Kingdom's new aluminium industry, and home of the Middle East's first, and one of the world's most technologically advanced, food-grade can sheet rolling mills. What we see here today is proof of what can be achieved through the true spirit of partnership that exists within our joint venture.
The joint venture will become the world's preeminent and lowest-cost supplier of primary aluminum, alumina and aluminum products, with access to the growing markets of the Middle East and beyond.
The complex will utilize critical infrastructure, including low-cost and clean power generation, as well as port and rail facilities, developed by the Kingdom's government. Bauxite feedstock for the planned alumina refinery will be transported by rail from the new mine at Al Ba'itha, near Quiba, in the north.
The smelter and rolling mill will begin operations in 2013 with the mine and refinery coming on stream in 2014, according to a latest report carried by Ma'aden web-site.
Ras Az Zawr is the location for Ma'aden 's minerals industry complex, a 77 square km site, 90km north of Al Jubail on the Arabian Gulf coast of Saudi Arabia.

© Saudi Press Agency 2010

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