South32 reports improved conditions at Mozal Aluminium

LONDON – South32 (OTC:) Limited (ASX / LSE / JSE: S32; ADR: SOUHY) has provided an update on the status of its Mozal Aluminium operations, following previous reports of disruptions due to civil unrest in Mozambique. The company has indicated that the safety of its workforce remains a top priority and that there have been no security incidents at the facility.

In recent days, road blockages that had impeded the transport of alumina from port to the Mozal Aluminium smelter have largely cleared, allowing for the safe resumption of shipments. South32 expects to replenish alumina stocks at the smelter in the coming days, assuming trucking conditions stay favorable.

Despite the improvements, the company remains cautious about the potential for civil unrest to escalate, particularly after the Mozambique Constitutional Council announces election results on December 23, 2024. Such developments could threaten the critical trucking activities and operations at Mozal Aluminium.

In response to the uncertainty, South32 has proactively reduced amperage to the potlines to preserve raw materials and maintain operational stability. The company warns that continued disruption to trucking could lead to further action, including the possible curtailment of potlines. In this event, alumina supply from South32’s Worsley Alumina (OTC:) refinery would be redirected and sold to third-party customers at market prices.

Throughout the period of unrest, Mozal Aluminium has maintained its aluminium exports to customers. This update is based on a press release statement from South32 Limited, a global mining and metals company committed to responsible resource development and community partnership.

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