10.11.2023 - Aluminium Association

Irina Kazovskaya, Chairperson of the Aluminium Association, attended a meeting of the Coordinating Coun-cil for Industrial Policy in the Metallurgical Sector organised by the Russian Ministry of Industry and Trade. The event, chaired by Viktor Yevtukhov, Secretary of State and Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade, was a part of the 29th International Industrial Metal Expo at the Expo Centre.

The Chairperson of the Aluminium Association addressed the higher demand for aluminium products, downstream capacities, prospects of green construction, and skilled personnel training.

As Irina Kazovskaya pointed out, Russian primary aluminium accounts for 5.6% of global production, yet only a quarter of all domestic primary aluminium is consumed within the country. This is due to both insuffi-cient downstream capacity and a relatively low level of domestic demand. With this in mind, the Aluminium Association along with its partners, has been focusing on two key areas: stimulating demand for aluminium products and aiding the development of downstream capacities. "The use of aluminium is a way to the technological independence, as it involves advanced operations. We operate in a variety of sectors from automotive, power generation and electronics to shipbuilding. Today, it’s crucial to identify the key pro-jects to ensure technological sovereignty, and the product range that we can manufacture domestically," noted Irina Kazovskaya.

Higher aluminium consumption aligns with the global principles of sustainable development. The advance-ment of technologies and materials for green construction is a worldwide trend. Aluminium is one of the most eco-friendly materials on Earth. Russian aluminium products are eco-friendly and can be endlessly re-cycled while preserving the metal properties. It is the perfect choice for a circular economy. Environmental safety is particularly important for public, educational, medical institutions and public areas. Aluminium and its alloys fully meet the requirements for such facilities. The new GOST national standards should incorpo-rate up-to-date quality and safety standards for educational and medical infrastructure: energy efficiency, no toxic impurities in materials, durability, and corrosion resistance.

Irina Kazovskaya also highlighted the shortage of skilled personnel. Specifically, there is a significant lack of competencies in aluminium welding and casting. Addressing these issues requires a national initiative to train people for innovative sectors. Companies need to consider personnel training before they open new production sites and purchase the equipment.