RIYADH — Eng. Khalid Al-Mudaifer, deputy minister of industry and mineral resources for mining affairs, said that the Gulf region is home to some of the largest aluminum production facilities globally, accounting for approximately 10 percent of global production. "The global demand for aluminum is predicted to increase by 20 — 30 percent by 2030, creating growth opportunities for all aluminum industries," the minister said while addressing the Arab International Aluminum Conference (ARABAL) in Riyadh. Al-Mudaifer said aluminum is an essential strategic metal in modern life due to its unique properties. This indicates that aluminum will remain a strategic metal for the future. He underscored the pivotal role of aluminum across diverse industries. The minister emphasized aluminum's widespread use in conventional sectors like transportation, construction, and food packaging, while highlighting its indispensable role in driving the global energy transition. This includes applications in electric vehicles, renewable energy sources, and energy storage systems. Since the launch of Vision 2030, the Kingdom has aimed to establish itself as a key global hub for metal production, Al-Mudaifer said while pointing out that Saudi Arabia possesses competitive advantages conducive to achieving this aspiration, such as favorable energy prices and a strategically advantageous geographical location. He highlighted the Kingdom's abundant mineral wealth, estimated at over $1.3 trillion, its robust infrastructure, a strong global investment presence, and a well-educated, and youthful workforce. "Bauxite and aluminum have been classified as strategic minerals due to their crucial importance in the shift towards cleaner energy. "The mining strategy aims to achieve ambitious goals by 2030, including doubling the production capacity of bauxite and aluminum by two and four times, respectively, and tripling the primary aluminum production capacity. "The ultimate objective is to enhance the Kingdom's ranking as one of the top 10 aluminum producers worldwide," he added. The 25th ARABAL, hosted by Ma'aden in Riyadh on Nov. 21-23, was the Middle East's premier trade event for the aluminum industry, combining a strategic conference with an international exhibition.
