News: Suppliers
15 July 2026
Australia, Japan, the USA and Alcoa investing in gallium project in Western Australia
The governments and industry partners of Australia, Japan and the USA, together with Alcoa Corp (which provides bauxite, alumina and aluminium products), have reached a final investment decision for a gallium production plant to be co-located at Alcoa’s Wagerup alumina refinery in Western Australia.
The gallium plant will be constructed and operated by Alcoa, leveraging its long-standing experience in alumina refining and advanced mineral processing. The facility will create a new, reliable source of gallium to support partner governments’ efforts to strengthen critical mineral supply chains.
“This final investment decision reflects a shared commitment by governments and industry to strengthen critical mineral supply chains among the partners,” says Alcoa’s president & CEO William F. Oplinger. “The project underscores the strategic importance of Western Australia and the role Alcoa’s operations play in delivering critical materials essential to the global economy.” The project represents a collaborative effort to diversify supply and enhance resilience across key industries.
Construction activities are expected to commence following final site preparations. Alcoa’s participation in the joint venture, including its role as construction and operating manager, is not expected to have a material impact on the company’s financial position or results of operations.
