Aluminium Bahrain (Alba) has entered into an exclusive agreement with AIP VII EUROPE S.a.r.l., a subsidiary of American Industrial Partners (AIP), to acquire 100 percent of Aluminium Dunkerque, the European Union’s largest primary aluminium smelter.
The acquisition marks a significant milestone for Aluminium Dunkerque, securing a long-term industrial owner committed to its continued development in France and Europe while creating a geographically diversified industrial platform spanning Europe and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region.
Strengthening European Aluminum Production
Based in Loon-Plage in the Dunkerque region, Aluminium Dunkerque produces 300,000 tons of aluminum annually. Under AIP’s ownership, the smelter has strengthened operational reliability, energy efficiency, financial performance, and low-carbon credentials, while securing long-term electricity supply agreements with EDF and others.
The combined Alba–Aluminium Dunkerque platform aims to expand global customer reach, enhance supply chain resilience, and meet growing demand driven by electrification, sustainable construction, and the energy transition.
Alba intends to pursue a long-term industrial strategy anchored in France, focusing on operational stability, continued investment, and sustainable innovation.
Khalid Al Rumaihi, Chairman of Alba, stated that, “Building on Alba’s global footprint, this transaction represents a forward-looking step to create a low-carbon aluminium platform with operational strongholds in the GCC and Europe. By combining our strengths, we aim to capture compelling market opportunities while contributing to Europe’s industrial resilience and the global decarbonization agenda.”
Ali Al Baqali CEO Alba
“Our commitment is long-term. We will ensure operational continuity, support employees, and expand low-carbon production capabilities to advance Aluminium Dunkerque’s next phase of development in alignment with France’s industrial and energy priorities.”
Guillaume de Goÿs, CEO & President of Aluminium Dunkerque, noted that, “Alba brings deep technical expertise, operational excellence, and a clear commitment to low-carbon aluminium production that aligns perfectly with our ambitions. This new chapter will provide us with the resources to continue investing and innovating in France and Europe.”
The acquisition will be cash-funded and fully underwritten by a syndicate of relationship banks, subject to regulatory approvals including FDI, EU antitrust, and French works council consultations.
Alba is also in discussions with Bpifrance for a potential shareholding, strengthening the smelter’s strategic development and long-term sustainability.
