Ukraine war: Australia expands Russia sanctions, bans alumina and bauxite exports
- The government said the latest measures will limit Russia’s capacity to produce aluminium, which is a critical export for the country
- Australia also said it will donate at least 70,000 tonnes of thermal coal to Ukraine to meet its energy needs
“The government will work closely with exporters and peak bodies that will be affected by the ban to find new and expand existing markets,” the statement said.
Anglo-Australian mining giant Rio Tinto owns an 80 per cent stake in Queensland Alumina Ltd (QAL) in a joint venture with Russia’s Rusal International PJSC, the world’s second-largest aluminium producer.
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The government also said it will donate at least 70,000 tonnes of thermal coal to Ukraine to meet its energy needs.
Australian coal producers have been bombarded with calls for supply over the past few weeks from Ukraine and other countries like Poland that have been reliant on Russian supplies.
“The Australian government has worked with the Australian coal industry to source supplies,” the statement said.
Whitehaven Coal has quickly arranged a shipment, and the government is now working with the company and the Ukrainian and Polish governments to deliver the supplies at the earliest available opportunity, the statement said.
Australia also pledged additional military equipment and humanitarian aid for Ukraine.