Iran inching toward becoming world 12th aluminum producer

Tehran, Sept 11, IRNA – Complete implementation of aluminum supply chain projects will make Iran the 12th aluminum producer of the world, said the country's deputy minister of industry, mines, and trade. Mehdi Karbasian made the remarks in the signing ceremony of MoUs on two aluminum production units in Lamerd Energy Intensive Industries Special Economic Zone, saying, “With total capacity of 960,000 tons, the companies will complete the aluminum production supply chain and bring noticeable added value for the country.” “The Lamerd aluminum rolling plant will feature a capacity of 160,000 tons annually upon completion and in addition to the South Aluminum Company (SALCO), they can bring up Iran’s rank in global aluminum ingot production from 18th to 12th,” he said. He referred to the 40 percent share of energy in downstream aluminum products and stressed, “Iran’s plentiful natural gas resources have increased the companies’ competitiveness.” “An alumina powder production unit with an annual capacity of 800,000 tons is under construction in Parsian Special Economic Zone. The project will benefit 600,000 euros of fund,” Karbasian said. The bauxite needed for producing alumina powder will be imported from Guinea through long-term contracts.