Azerbaijani president orders doubling of aluminum production by 2031

BAKU. Sept 22 (Interfax) - Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev has ordered that several new mining sector enterprises be launched by 2031 to establish a complete production chain and to boost aluminum output from the current 50,000 tonnes per year to 100,000 tonnes per year.

"If there are interesting proposals from foreign partners regarding the development of the aluminum industry, then they could be implemented. Aluminum production must be raised to 100,000 tonnes," Aliyev said on Tuesday at a meeting dedicated to implementing the state program to develop the mining and metals industry in 2027-2030.

Aliyev noted that the program aims to create a "complete mining industry chain, extending all the way to the finished product." Plans for the upcoming four-year period in Azerbaijan include the launch of plants for iron ore beneficiation and the production of pellets and iron briquettes.

"The transportation of raw materials plays a crucial role. Therefore, it is necessary to offer preferential shipping rates to ensure economic efficiency. Comprehensive environmental assessments must be conducted, and all environmental standards strictly observed," Aliyev emphasized.

Aliyev at the meeting also noted that development of the country's mining industry has not yet reached the appropriate level owing to objective and subjective factors.