Mitsui Rises Stake in Nippon Amazon Aluminium to Drive Low-Carbon Aluminium Offtake

Mitsui & Co., Ltd. has participated in a third-party allotment of new shares for Nippon Amazon Aluminium Co., Ltd. ("NAAC," Head Office: Tokyo, President: Kenji Kobayashi), which holds a 49% stake in ALBRAS - Alumínio Brasileiro S.A. ("Albas"). This strategic investment increases Mitsui's ownership in NAAC from approximately 21% to 46% (direct and indirect). Consequently, Mitsui's offtake volume of Aluminum Ingots produced by Albras will rise from around 80,000 tons per year to 140,000 tons annually, significantly enhancing Mitsui's position in the aluminum market.

NAAC, a Japanese investment firm founded in 1977, is a cornerstone investor in the Amazon Aluminum Complex Project. This strategic venture encompasses the Albras alumina refinery, a significant component of the complex. By capitalizing on Brazil's abundant hydroelectric power, Albras operates as a substantial producer of low-carbon aluminum, aligning with global sustainability objectives. The company's operations in the Brazilian Amazon region exemplify a commitment to both economic development and environmental responsibility.

Aluminum is a versatile material used across various industries, including transportation (automobiles, aircraft, etc.), construction materials, cans, and electrical wiring. Its lightweight and highly recyclable nature make it increasingly sought after, with future demand expected to rise significantly. However, aluminum production is energy-intensive, requiring substantial electricity. As a result, there is a growing demand for "green aluminum," produced using electricity with low CO2 emissions. With supply remaining limited, the scarcity of green aluminum is anticipated to increase, further driving its value and importance in the market.

Since the 1960s, Mitsui has played a key role in developing and ensuring a stable supply of underground resources, including ferrous metals like iron ore and metallurgical coal, as well as nonferrous metals such as copper, nickel, lithium, and aluminum. With the growing global emphasis on decarbonization, Mitsui has shifted its focus toward developing green materials, with a particular emphasis on securing green aluminum. This commitment reflects Mitsui’s dedication to addressing the environmental challenges of our time while continuing to support the sustainable growth of critical industries.

"Industrial Business Solutions" is a central pillar of Mitsui's Medium-term Management Plan 2026, focusing on delivering industrial solutions by ensuring a stable supply of vital resources and materials for societal advancement. Through this capital increase and enhanced access to green aluminum—whose global demand is projected to rise—Mitsui aims to strengthen its aluminum business. This strategic move not only solidifies Mitsui's market position but also aligns with its commitment to contributing to a decarbonized society, supporting global efforts to reduce carbon emissions and promote sustainability.