Alcoa Declares Force Majeure on Brazil Bauxite Shipments from Juruti Port

Alcoa Brazil Bauxite Shipments

U.S.-based primary aluminum producer Alcoa has declared force majeure on bauxite shipments from its operations in Juruti, Brazil. This announcement follows the closure of the Santarém harbor waterway due to a stranded ship that has obstructed the terminal access channel.

The incident, which is beyond Alcoa's control, has rendered the waterway inoperable. Alcoa clarified that it was not involved in the stranding and has no influence over the timeline for resolving the issue.

Critical Impact on Brazil's Bauxite Exports

Santarém Port is a key hub for Brazil's bauxite exports, accounting for 99.7% of the 4.5 million metric tonnes (t) of bauxite exported from the country so far this year, based on customs data. Alcoa's declaration of force majeure underscores the disruption’s significant impact on global bauxite supply chains.

No Timeline for Resolution

While Alcoa has not provided an estimated timeline for the resumption of shipments, the situation highlights the vulnerability of global mineral supply chains to logistical disruptions. The company continues to monitor the situation closely as authorities work to resolve the blockage.

As a leading producer of primary aluminum, Alcoa’s operational interruptions could have broader implications for industries reliant on bauxite, a key raw material for aluminum production.