Alcoa Corp., a leading aluminum producer in the US, welcomed announcements of support from the US and Australian governments to advance a gallium plant co-located at its Wagerup alumina refinery in Western Australia.

This development builds on an earlier agreement with Japan Australia Gallium Associates Pty Ltd (JAGA), a joint venture between the Japanese government and Sojitz Corporation. Following feasibility studies, the US, Australia, and Alcoa are expected to form a special purpose vehicle (SPV) to join JAGA in constructing the gallium plant.

Alcoa will operate the plant, which is expected to produce 100 metric tons of gallium per year. The critical mineral, which is essential for semiconductors and defense sectors, is extracted from bauxite during the refining process. The support aims to secure an alternative supply chain for gallium. The final investment decision and production are expected in 2026.