NALCO (National Aluminium Company) in South Africa

NALCO’s Strategic Shift: Exiting South African Project Amidst Global Market Dynamics

Johannesburg, South Africa – October 17, 2025

The National Aluminium Company Limited (NALCO), India’s premier state-owned aluminium producer, has recently decided to withdraw from its proposed aluminium smelter project in South Africa. This decision marks a significant shift in NALCO’s international expansion strategy, influenced by evolving market conditions and operational challenges.

Project Overview and Withdrawal

In 2024, NALCO announced plans to invest approximately ₹17,000 crore (around $2 billion) in South Africa to establish a 500,000-tonne aluminium smelter plant and a 1,250-MW power plant. However, the company has now shelved this initiative due to the unavailability of sufficient coal resources to support the project’s energy requirements. A senior NALCO official stated, “Both projects have now been withdrawn given the unavailability of sufficient coal to feed the projects.” (constructionweekonline.in)

Impact on South African Aluminium Industry

NALCO’s withdrawal from the South African project has raised concerns about the future of the country’s aluminium industry. The proposed smelter was expected to significantly boost local production and create numerous employment opportunities. Industry experts now anticipate a potential slowdown in the development of the aluminium sector within South Africa.

Global Market Context

The decision to exit the South African project aligns with broader challenges in the global aluminium market. In December 2024, Australian mining giant South32 withdrew its production guidance for the Mozal Aluminium smelter in Mozambique due to escalating civil unrest, which disrupted the transport of raw materials. This development led to a surge in global alumina prices, impacting aluminium producers worldwide. (moneycontrol.com)

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NALCO’s Financial Performance

Despite the strategic withdrawal from South Africa, NALCO has demonstrated robust financial performance in recent quarters. In the first quarter of the financial year 2024-25, the company reported a 76% increase in profit, reaching ₹5.88 billion, driven by lower input costs and higher aluminium prices. (reuters.com) Additionally, in the fourth quarter ending March 31, 2024, NALCO’s profit before exceptional items and tax stood at ₹9.43 billion, surpassing analysts’ expectations. (reuters.com)

Future Outlook

Looking ahead, NALCO remains committed to strengthening its position in the domestic market and exploring opportunities in other international markets where resource availability and geopolitical conditions are more favorable. The company continues to focus on enhancing operational efficiency and expanding its product portfolio to meet the growing global demand for aluminium.