Aluminium Bahrain (Alba) is expected to complete the acquisition of Aluminium Dunkerque later this year, following an agreement with current owner American Industrial Partners to acquire 100% of the company. The move represents a significant step in Alba’s international expansion strategy and strengthens its position within the global aluminium industry.

Based in Loon-Plage, near Dunkerque in northern France, Aluminium Dunkerque is Europe’s largest primary aluminium smelter, with annual production capacity of around 300,000 tonnes. The plant has positioned itself as one of the region’s lowest-carbon primary aluminium producers, supported by long-term electricity agreements and continued investment in operational efficiency and modernisation. Recent energy agreements, including long-term supply arrangements with EDF, have reinforced the site’s low-carbon strategy and long-term industrial stability.

Under the ownership of American Industrial Partners, Aluminium Dunkerque has strengthened operational reliability, improved productivity, and enhanced financial performance. The proposed acquisition would now bring together Alba’s large-scale smelting expertise with Aluminium Dunkerque’s European industrial base, creating a geographically diversified aluminium group with a wider global customer reach.

Alba has stated that its long-term industrial approach in France will focus on operational continuity, preserving employment, and supporting sustainable innovation. The company has also emphasised maintaining Aluminium Dunkerque’s strong safety culture and operational standards while reinforcing low-carbon aluminium production aligned with Europe’s energy-transition goals.

Ali Al Baqali, CEO of Alba, described the transaction as a long-term commitment, highlighting continued investment and support for employees as key priorities for the next phase of growth. Guillaume de Goÿs, CEO and President of Aluminium Dunkerque, said the acquisition would provide new technical and financial resources to support future development and innovation.

The acquisition will be financed in cash and fully underwritten by a syndicate of relationship banks. As part of the deal, Alba has expressed willingness to offer a shareholding position to Bpifrance, aiming to strengthen strategic cooperation and support the long-term sustainable development of Aluminium Dunkerque.