Queensland bauxite bound for China

A 62,000 tonne shipment of bauxite from a new Queensland mine left Australian shores today (7 May) as part of a four-year export deal with one of China’s largest integrated aluminium companies.

Mines Minister Dr Anthony Lynham said the Bauxite Hills Mine success story was a reflection of Queensland’s strong economic conditions and expertise. 

“From the turning of the first sod, to the first shipment in only nine months, the Bauxite Hills Mine is a prime example of the demand for Queensland’s minerals,” he said.

“As well as securing a four-year export deal with one of China’s largest aluminium companies Xinfa, the mine will provide up to 200 jobs. 

“We continue to see that with strong, safe, established trade routes to the northern hemisphere, Queensland is ideally located to meet demand from Asia and other eastern markets.

“We have a world-class ‘minerals for industry’ sector unmatched anywhere in the world, and it’s great to see Metro Mining taking these resources to market,” Dr Lynham said.

 Metro Mining Managing Director Simon Finnis said commencement of mining operations at Bauxite Hills was “a great outcome for Metro itself, and all our stakeholders and partners.”

“We are delighted to be exporting beautiful north Queensland bauxite to leading alumina refineries in China,” he said.

 “The first 62,000 tonne shipment has been purchased by the Xinfa Group. Xinfa has significant refining and smelting operations in Shandong, Shanxi, Guangxi and Xinjiang provinces, and is a major company in the aluminium business.

 “Importantly, the Bauxite Hills Mine, provides ongoing opportunities for locals and the Far North Queensland region as a whole. We are committed to furthering Indigenous opportunities through employment and training, and in the longer term fostering initiatives for business creation.

 “We are also committed to investing in the region wherever possible through goods and services and the State benefits through royalties,” Mr Finnis said.

 Queensland bauxite is used in the production of aluminium – which is widely used in global automotive, manufacturing, building and industrial industries.

 [ENDS]

Media contacts:

Minister’s Office - David Potter 0428 411 617

Metro Mining - DIgby McLeay 0419 690 001