SHANGHAI Jun.1 (CBI China):The Qingtongxia Aluminum Group recently held a conference to discuss the design of its planned 150-200kt p.a. aluminum sheet and stripe project but the final design is still under development. Construction will begin in late 2007 and the facility is expected to open in 2008.

    The new production lines will use hot rolled aluminum strip to produce aluminum sheet and stripe, which are used by the packaging, printing, transportation, and construction industries. Total investment in the project is estimated at RMB1.2 billion.

    CBI believes given the rapid expansion growth, smelters are extending the product line to include derivatives such as bar, alloy and plate & strip in order to enhance their competitive edges.