Shanxi Xiaoyi’s alumina plants to halve production during Aug 8-20

SHANGHAI, Aug 8 (SMM) – Alumina refineries in Xiaoyi of North China’s Shanxi province have been required to cut production by half between August 8-20, to improve air quality during the National Youth Games, according to the notice released by the local anti-smog office on Wednesday August 7.

During the same period, coke plants are ordered to extend coking time, while brick kilns should suspend.

SMM data showed that alumina capacity that has been built up in Xiaoyi totaled 7.9 million mt.

Alumina prices have been on the decline since the end of May, with SMM assessments showing that the average price lost 23% to stand at 2,442 yuan/mt as of Thursday August 8.