Chenfeng Carbon Project in Xinjiang Completes Construction, Reaches 200,000 mt Annual Capacity

[SMM Aluminum Express News] Press Metal, Southeast Asia’s largest aluminum smelter, reported a 66% year-on-year increase in second-quarter 2026 profit after tax and minority interests to MYR801 million, while revenue rose 12% to MYR4.69 billion, mainly on higher realized metal prices. Excluding a MYR115.42 million one-off gain, core profit increased 42% to MYR685.58 million. The company said Middle Eastern smelters were progressively restarting but continued regional and Red Sea disruptions kept freight costs elevated and supported aluminum premiums.

[SMM Aluminum Express News] Rio Tinto announced on October 1 that agreements with the Tasmanian and Australian governments will secure Bell Bay Aluminium’s operations through the end of 2031. Hydro Tasmania will extend electricity supply until December 31, 2031, beyond the current agreement’s expiry at end-2026, while both governments will provide additional support to maintain competitiveness. The wholly owned smelter in northern Tasmania produces approximately 190,000 tonnes of aluminum annually.

[SMM Aluminum Express News] The first Venezuelan primary aluminum shipment to the United States in eight years, comprising 15,000 tons, arrived at the Port of Avondale in New Orleans, according to an October 5 announcement by Heeney Capital, a US investment firm focused on critical minerals and industrial supply chains. The cargo will supply US manufacturers, reopening a long-inactive trade route. Heeney expects additional shipments in the coming months and plans broader investment in Venezuelan industrial capacity.