Aluminium Bahrain (Alba), the world’s largest aluminum smelter operating on a single site, has initiated a controlled and safe shutdown of Reduction Lines 1, 2 and 3 as a precautionary operational measure.
These three lines account for approximately 19 percent of Alba’s total production capacity of 1,623,000 metric tons per year, and the temporary shutdown aims to help preserve business continuity amid ongoing supply chain and transit disruptions affecting the Strait of Hormuz.
The shutdown of Reduction Lines 1, 2 and 3 is a targeted operational measure aimed at optimizing the use of Alba’s existing raw materials inventory while prioritizing stability across its remaining operating lines, ensuring efficient resource allocation and maintaining operational resilience amid ongoing supply chain uncertainties.
By concentrating strategic raw material inputs on Reduction Lines 4, 5 and 6, Alba seeks to maintain production resilience, manage working capital prudently and develop alternative sourcing strategies to reduce exposure to near-term supply volatility.
The controlled shutdown will also allow it to carry out structured asset care and maintenance on the affected lines, including comprehensive housekeeping and cleaning activities to preserve equipment integrity. These measures are intended to support a safe and efficient restart of the lines once broader operating conditions improve, while minimizing health, safety, environmental and operational risks and safeguarding long-term asset performance.
Alba asserted that it continues to closely monitor developments and will update the market as appropriate, while working with suppliers and customers to manage commitments and limit disruption. The company emphasized that the safety of employees and contractors, the protection of its assets and the reliability of supply to customers remain its top priorities.
