AlCircle: Latest bauxite news update

IBAAS technical lecture series continues to strengthen knowledge sharing in the global aluminium industry

Fri, 26 Jun 2026 07:30:00 +0530

The International Bauxite, Alumina & Aluminium Society (IBAAS) has been successfully organising its Technical Lecture Series for the past four years, creating a unique knowledge-sharing platform for professionals, researchers, students, and stakeholders associated with the aluminium industry worldwide.

Conducted on the last Friday of every month from 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM (IST), each lecture is followed by an interactive question-and-answer session, allowing participants to engage directly with leading industry experts. The initiative was launched with the objective of promoting continuous learning, facilitating the exchange of technical knowledge, and encouraging innovation across the aluminium value chain.

Over the years, the lecture series has hosted around 40 technical presentations on a wide range of topics covering bauxite mining, alumina refining, aluminium smelting, carbon technology, sustainability, digitalisation, recycling, waste valorisation, energy efficiency, and emerging industry trends. The lectures are delivered by distinguished experts, consultants, researchers, and industry leaders from around the world.

One of the key strengths of the IBAAS Technical Lecture Series is its accessibility. Participation is completely free of cost, enabling students, researchers, young scientists, engineers, and industry professionals to benefit from high-quality technical knowledge and practical insights. The platform also provides excellent visibility and networking opportunities for speakers and participants seeking to expand their professional presence within the global aluminium community.

In 2026, IBAAS has already organised five successful lectures. The next session is scheduled for 26 June 2026 on the topic “Anode Quality Optimisation”, to be delivered by Mr Khalil Khaji, Consultant – Carbon Plants & Carbon Anode Technology. The lecture is expected to attract professionals involved in carbon plant operations, process optimisation, and aluminium smelting.

IBAAS invites industry professionals, researchers, students, and stakeholders to participate in this informative session and benefit from the knowledge and experience shared by one of the industry's leading experts.

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

Looking ahead to IBAAS 2026

The International Bauxite, Alumina & Aluminium Society (IBAAS) is also organising the 14th International Bauxite, Alumina & Aluminium Conference & Exhibition (IBAAS 2026) from 9–11 September 2026 at Mayfair Hotels & Resorts, Jharsuguda, Odisha, India, under the theme “Global Aluminium Outlook 2030: Secure Resources, Efficient Energy and Value from Wastes.”

The conference comes at a pivotal time as the global aluminium industry advances toward low-carbon operations, clean energy adoption, digital transformation, and sustainable growth. Special sessions will focus on artificial intelligence, digitalisation, green aluminium, waste valorisation, recycling, and advanced materials.

IBAAS 2026 is expected to attract participation from leading aluminium producers and technology providers from around the world. Senior executives, technical experts, researchers, and decision-makers from organisations such as NALCO, Hindalco, Vedanta, BALCO, FIVES, ABB, ALTEK Europe, Almatis, AKW, Calderys, Elkem AS, Flash Metals USA and other major industry players are expected to participate, making the event a significant platform for technical exchange, business networking, and industry collaboration.

With participation from over 100 companies, more than 70 technical presentations, and a plant visit to Hindalco's Aditya Smelter, the conference will provide valuable opportunities for knowledge sharing, partnerships, and discussions on the future direction of the global aluminium industry.

Note: This article has been shared by IBAAS and has been published by AL Circle with its original information without any modifications or edits to the core subject/data.

Canyon Resources advances Minim Martap project as locomotives arrive in Cameroon

Fri, 26 Jun 2026 07:30:00 +0530

Canyon Resources has announced the delivery of locomotives to its Cameroonian subsidiary, Camalco Cameroon S.A., marking further progress in the development of the Minim Martap Bauxite Project's mine-to-port logistics network.

The milestone follows the company's decision to increase its stake in Camrail, Cameroon's national rail operator, from 9.1 per cent to 26.9 per cent. According to Canyon, the larger holding will strengthen oversight of bauxite transportation, support rail infrastructure upgrades and improve the overall logistics chain for the project.

The newly delivered locomotives will undergo a six to eight-week commissioning, testing and operator training programme before rail transport between the Inland Rail Facility and the Port of Douala begins in the third quarter of 2026.

Canyon also confirmed that the first 60 rail wagons have left the factory and are expected to arrive in Cameroon by mid-August 2026, while the remaining 100 wagons are scheduled for delivery later in the third quarter.

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

Under the first phase of development, a fleet of seven locomotives and 160 wagons is expected to transport around 35,000 wet metric tonnes of bauxite per month. Subject to securing an additional USD 160 million in funding, the second phase will include 15 more locomotives and 400 wagons, increasing transport capacity to approximately 105,000 wet metric tonnes per month by early Q3 2027.

The company expects trial mining to begin in the third quarter of 2026, pending final discussions with local communities. Construction of the ore haul road, Inland Rail Facility and dredging work at the Port of Douala are also expected to be completed later in the quarter, paving the way for the first bauxite shipment in Q4 2026.

Separately, Canyon Resources announced that Non-Executive Chairman Mark Hohnen will retire from the board on 25 August 2026. The company said further details regarding board succession will be announced in due course.

Managing Director Peter Secker said the company remains on track to commence mining and export high-quality bauxite before the end of 2026, while continuing discussions to secure funding for the project's next stage of expansion.

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

Metro Mining appoints Rudi Cohrssen as General Counsel and Company Secretary

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 08:30:00 +0530

Metro Mining Ltd has announced changes to its executive leadership team, appointing Rudi Cohrssen as its new General Counsel and Company Secretary, effective July 1, 2026.

Cohrssen is qualified as a lawyer in Australia, South Africa and Namibia. He joins Metro from the Victorian Bar in Melbourne, where he has practised as a barrister across corporate and commercial law, arbitration, employment law, environmental law and natural resources law. His legal work has included representing clients in State and Federal Courts as well as various tribunals.

He has also advised global resource companies on strategy, risk, commercial and corporate law, cross-border arbitration and business development. Earlier in his career, Cohrssen worked as an academic, teaching a range of legal subjects at the Chinese University of Hong Kong. He is a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators and a Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.

Meanwhile, Robin Bates, who has served as Metro's General Counsel and Company Secretary for the past three and a half years, will remain with the company until July 31, 2026, to ensure a smooth transition. Metro acknowledged her contribution during a key period of growth and wished her success in her future endeavours.

Check out the forecast of the global bauxite and alumina market till 2036, book the report “Global Bauxite & Alumina Market Forecast to 2036: Supply–Demand, Trade Flows & Price Outlook”

The announcement was approved by Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director Simon Wens.

The appointment aligns with Metro’s broader leadership restructuring announced by CEO and Managing Director Simon Wensley as part of the company’s 2026 Management Operating System. The initiative focuses on integrated supply chain planning, improved operational performance, enhanced reliability, and a targeted reduction of more than 20 per cent in FOB operating costs per tonne.

Recent executive appointments include Paul Green as Executive General Manager Operations and Troy McMillan as General Manager People & Culture. Chief Financial Officer Nathan Quinlin has also assumed expanded responsibilities covering supply chain planning and operational performance, while Norman Ting continues leading Metro’s China-based sales and logistics operations.

China's bauxite imports hit high in May; Guinean supply dominates as non-mainstream sources collapse

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 07:00:00 +0530

Data from the General Administration of Customs of the People's Republic of China (GACC) shows that China imported a total of 23.03 million tonnes of bauxite in May 2026, representing a month-on-month increase of 16.65 per cent and a year-on-year surge of 31.49 per cent, indicating a significant rebound in import scale. Total imports for the January–May period reached 100.76 million tonnes, up 18.14 per cent Y-o-Y, maintaining a high level of supply throughout the first half of the year.

According to Mysteel, Chinese alumina refineries consumed approximately 68.93 million tonnes of imported ore during the first five months. Actual consumption remains significantly lower than total import volumes, confirming that the imported bauxite market remains in a state of oversupply.

By origin, the import growth in May was almost entirely supported by the two mainstream suppliers, Guinea and Australia. Imports from Guinea hit 19.61 million tonnes, up 19.39 per cent M-o-M, accounting for over 80 per cent of total imports and serving as the core driver of the monthly rebound.

The arrivals in May correspond to the shipping cycle from mid-March to mid-April, when the region entered its dry season. Active mining activity and efficient port operations allowed major mines to maintain steady, high-volume shipments, pushing Guinean arrivals to record highs.

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

Imports from Australia stood at 3.03 million tonnes, up 24.89 per cent M-o-M and slightly higher Y-o-Y. Favourable weather conditions across Australia prevented disruptions to mining and loading operations, while timely inventory replenishment at ports ensured smooth logistics, contributing to the M-o-M increase.

In stark contrast, imports from non-mainstream sources contracted sharply. Customs data indicates that imports from non-mainstream origins plunged by 55.8 per cent M-o-M and 70.2 per cent Y-o-Y, compressing their market share to less than 2 per cent.

This collapse is attributed to multiple factors. Domestically, robust shipments from mainstream suppliers squeezed out smaller players, while high ocean freight rates further suppressed their competitiveness. Additionally, domestic port inventories remained elevated, and refineries maintained conservative, rigid procurement strategies, drastically reducing their appetite for higher-cost non-mainstream ore.

On the supply side, specific disruptions exacerbated the decline: export license approvals were delayed in Malaysia, core ports in Turkey underwent scheduled maintenance, and Brazilian cargoes were largely diverted to the European and US markets. These overlapping supply constraints further weighed on shipments from non-mainstream origins to China.

Note: This news is published under a content and exchange agreement with Mysteel

Hindalco removes East Coast Bauxite Mining Company from subsidiary list

Tue, 23 Jun 2026 08:15:00 +0530

Hindalco Industries Limited said its wholly owned subsidiary, East Coast Bauxite Mining Company Private Limited, has been struck off by the Registrar of Companies (RoC), Cuttack, after the subsidiary applied for voluntary removal from the register of companies.

The Ministry of Corporate Affairs issued a notice on June 22, 2026, confirming the strike-off under Section 248 of the Companies Act, 2013. With effect from the same date, East Coast Bauxite Mining Company is no longer a subsidiary of Hindalco.

According to the company, the move will have no material impact on its business activities or financial position. East Coast did not record any contribution to Hindalco's turnover, revenue or net worth during the last financial year.

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

Hindalco said the strike-off was initiated voluntarily and was not linked to any sale, transfer or disposal of the subsidiary. Therefore, no consideration was involved and no buyer details are applicable.

The company added that the development does not fall under related-party transactions and is not connected to any Scheme of Arrangement. As a result, compliance requirements under Regulation 37A of the SEBI (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations are not applicable.

Villagers support Kodingamali bauxite mine expansion, seek better infrastructure and jobs

Mon, 22 Jun 2026 06:00:00 +0530

The public hearing on the proposed expansion of Kodingamali Bauxite Mine in Odisha concluded peacefully on June 21 with the residents of nearby villages backing the project but raising concerns over infrastructure and livelihoods.

The State Pollution Control Board (SPCB)’s regional office conducted the public hearing in Rayagada town for a proposal to increase the mine’s annual bauxite production from 3.6 million tonnes to 6 million tonnes.

The hearing was participated by more than 500 residents from villages like Kansariguda, Podapadi, Kindiripadar, Phuljaba, Uparkodinga, Bankamba and Bajragada, officials said. During the course of the proceedings 26 villagers spoke in favour of the expansion and a further 23 submitted written consents in support of the proposal.

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

The villagers, as the project’s backers, demanded better basic infrastructure and public services. Better drinking water facilities, road connectivity, health care services, schools and pension benefits were among the key demands. The residents also demanded more jobs for the local youth and steps to facilitate the socio-economic development of the region.

The Kodingamali Bauxite Mine is operated by Odisha Mining Corporation (OMC) over an area of 428.075 hectares of land in Laxmipur and Kashipur tehsils of undivided Koraput region.

Additional District Magistrate (Revenue) Nihar Ranjan Kahar and Regional Pollution Control Officer Ashok Bhoi were present during the hearing. Senior officers of the district administration and police were present there.

The proposed expansion is likely to offer more bauxite supply for the aluminium industry. The hearing underscored the need to ensure that industrial expansion aligns with local development priorities.

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

China port bauxite stocks reach 32.4 million tonnes despite higher prices

Sat, 20 Jun 2026 06:15:00 +0530

China’s bauxite inventories continued to increase last week despite higher prices and ongoing concerns over supply from Guinea. Stocks held at Chinese ports reached 32.4 million tonnes, up 24 per cent year-on-year and the highest level recorded since 2022. However, inventories remain around 20 per cent below the five-year peak of 39 million tonnes.

At the same time, the price of Guinea’s 45 per cent grade bauxite rose by USD 1 per tonne week-on-week to USD 69.5 per tonne CFR China. Despite the price increase, the rise in inventories indicates that the Chinese market remains well supplied.

The growing stockpiles may also point to longer-term changes in China’s aluminium supply chain. The country’s domestic bauxite mining is getting more expensive and less competitive as its workforce ages. The country is shifting toward higher-value manufacturing, so it now relies more on imported bauxite. This makes building larger stockpiles important to keep supply secure.

To know the long-term bauxite market forecast, book our report: “Global Bauxite & Alumina Market Forecast to 2036: Supply–Demand, Trade Flows & Price Outlook”

Meanwhile, China’s aluminium industry is benefiting from low electricity costs and from production disruptions at some Middle Eastern smelters. These factors pushed China’s exports of unwrought aluminium and semi-fabricated aluminium products up 15 per cent year-on-year to 0.63 million tonnes in May 2026.

VBX secures environmental approvals to expand Wuudagu bauxite project

Thu, 18 Jun 2026 12:35:00 +0530

VBX Limited has obtained approval from the Western Australian Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) and the Australian Government's environment department to modify the development plan for its Wuudagu bauxite project in northern Western Australia.

The revised proposal reduces the project's indicative footprint by almost 10 per cent to about 1,775 hectares while increasing planned mining and beneficiation rates to up to 9 million tonnes per annum (Mtpa).

One of the major changes involves shifting the beneficiation plant inland from Guy Point. VBX said the move is intended to lower potential impacts on coastal and marine environments. Other proposed changes include narrower sealed haul roads, a distributed bore field with an optional desalination plant for water supply, and the co-location of port infrastructure to limit disturbance across the project area.

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

The company has been working with the Wunambal Gaambera Traditional Owners since 2019 on environmental assessments and field studies. The information gathered through this work will form part of the final Environmental Review Document for the project.

VBX said the updated project design is expected to improve both environmental performance and operating efficiency. The company also expects the development to create employment, training and business opportunities for the Wunambal Gaambera Traditional Owners, the Kalumburu community and the wider Kimberley region.

The approvals mark an important step in advancing the Wuudagu project, which VBX is positioning as a large-scale bauxite operation in the Kimberley region.

Cameroon’s Minim Martap Project targets first bauxite shipment by September 2026

Thu, 18 Jun 2026 12:35:00 +0530

Australian mining company Canyon Resources has refined the development timeline for its Minim Martap bauxite project in Cameroon’s Adamawa region, with the first shipment of bauxite now expected by the end of the third quarter of 2026, around late September.

The project is being developed through Canyon’s local subsidiary, Camalco. Before exports can begin, the company must complete a logistics network connecting the mine to Cameroon’s railway system and the Port of Douala.

According to the company’s latest update, the first seven locomotives allocated to the project are expected to arrive at the Port of Douala by the end of the second quarter of 2026. The first batch of railcars is scheduled to arrive in July, ahead of the planned start of commercial exports.

Rail transport forms a crucial part of the project. Camalco has ordered 22 diesel locomotives from Chinese manufacturer CRRC Ziyang Co. Ltd. and placed an initial order for 560 open-top railcars with India’s Texmaco Rail & Engineering Limited. The agreement also includes an option to acquire an additional 1,040 railcars over the next five years. These rail assets will be used to transport bauxite from Minim Martap to the Port of Douala for export.

The project depends heavily on an integrated logistics system. Canyon Resources said rail installation work has already started at the inland rail facility, and earthworks are underway at the Port of Douala. The company also has plans to build bauxite stockpiles at the mine, rail terminal and port before loading its first export vessel.

To strengthen control over the transport corridor, Canyon Resources has increased its stake in Camrail, the operator of Cameroon’s railway network, to 26.9 per cent. The move is aimed at securing reliable access to the route connecting the Adamawa region with Douala.

To know the long-term bauxite market forecast, book our report: “Global Bauxite & Alumina Market Forecast to 2036: Supply–Demand, Trade Flows & Price Outlook”

Total investment in rolling stock, rail infrastructure and port facilities is estimated at around CFA 252.6 billion (USD 441.5 million). Canyon Resources describes Minim Martap as one of the world’s largest undeveloped bauxite projects, with mineral resources of about 1.1 billion tonnes and ore reserves of 144 million tonnes.

The deposit is also known for its high-quality ore, containing around 51 per cent alumina and about 2 per cent silica, characteristics that are highly valued by alumina refiners and aluminium producers.

The planned start of exports is a key milestone for Cameroon’s mining sector after years of preparation. Hitting the September 2026 target depends on on-time delivery of rail equipment, continued progress on rail and port works, and building up bauxite stockpiles before the first shipment.

Beyond the initial export phase, Canyon Resources will focus on gradually increasing production. The long-term success of the Minim Martap project will depend not only on the quality of its bauxite reserves but also on the efficiency and reliability of the logistics corridor linking the mine, the railway network, and the Port of Douala.

The 33 bauxite shipments probe: Solomon Islands AG asked to withdraw

Wed, 17 Jun 2026 07:58:00 +0530

Bauxite in the Solomon Islands gains the spotlight as the Opposition leader, Manasseh Sogavare, requested the Attorney General, Gabriel Suri, to withdraw from matters related to the mining company, Asia Pacific Investment Development (APID), with a bauxite shipment probe underway.

The development resulted from Suri’s directive to the Director of Mines, Christa Tatapu, to submit documentation on 33 bauxite shipments from West Rennell mining operations conducted by Bintan Mining SI Ltd., which was contracted by APID.

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

Sogavare argued that Suri should withhold himself from all APID-related proceedings due to his previous role as legal counsel to the company. APID is facing scrutiny for failing to pay SBD 8.6 million (USD 1.07 million) owed to the Solomon Islands government, provincial authorities and landowners between 2017 and 2019.

Calling for safeguards to protect the integrity of the investigation, Sogavare stated that “all APID-related work should be delegated to law officers or independent counsel who are free from any actual or apparent conflict of interest.”

He further urged Prime Minister Matthew Wale to clarify what screening or recusal measures have been implemented since Suri’s appointment.

Emphasising public trust, legal independence and governance standards at Solomon Islands, Sogavare stated the need for a culture where “conflicts of interest” are addressed appropriately so that “public confidence” is not broken.

Participate in our upcoming e-Magazine - Mine to Market: ALuminium Producers & Manufacturers 2026

Responding to the allegations, Suri rejected calls for his withdrawal, stating that he had no involvement in APID’s operational mining activities or the shipment of bauxite from West Rennell. He explained that his legal work for the company was limited to defending its mining lease when it was challenged by landowners and later revoked by former Mines Minister Bradley Tovosia.