Rio Tinto Commissions $1.5B AP60 Smelter Expansion in Quebec

Key Facts

In a move aimed at strengthening its production capabilities in the strategic metals sector, Rio Tinto has commenced the commissioning phase of its AP60 smelter expansion in Quebec, Canada. This project represents a significant capital investment of $1.5 billion at the Complexe Arvida. According to reports, the expansion is designed to increase annual primary aluminum production capacity by 160,000 metric tonnes, utilizing state-of-the-art, low-carbon smelting technology.

This expansion comes as global aluminum markets shift toward sustainable production, with Rio Tinto competing alongside industry peers such as Alcoa and Norsk Hydro. Compared to Q1 2024 results, the company is maintaining its strategy of carbon reduction, as prior earnings reports highlighted the AP60 technology as being among the most efficient globally. Per market data, the increased supply of low-carbon Canadian aluminum bolsters the company's competitiveness in US and European markets facing strict environmental regulations.