【Ferro-alloys.com】: Rio Tinto will begin early works and final engineering studies to increase the production capacity at its Amrun bauxite mine in Queensland, aiming for output in 2029.

The proposed project, named Kangwinan at the request of the Wik Waya People, will establish a new mine and expanding the existing port to nearly double production from the Rio’s Weipa Southern operations, where Amrun is located.

Amrun is a $2.6 billion investment and is a cornerstone of Rio’s bauxite supply.

The proposed expansion would increase annual bauxite production capacity by up to 20 million tonnes, in addition to the current 23 million tonnes, and expand export capacity through the Amrun port.

“This feasibility study will explore a new bauxite operation at our Weipa operations and represents a strong vote of confidence in the world-class bauxite deposits on the Western Cape York Peninsula, our bauxite operations, and the local community,” Rio Pacific operations aluminium managing director Armando Torres said.

“It’s an important step toward securing the long-term future of our operations at Cape York, and the benefits that mining brings to communities in the region, while ensuring security of supply to our Australian refineries and to our customers.”

Production from Kangwinan would replace volumes from the Andoom mine in Queensland and the Gove mine in the Northern Territory, both expected to close towards the end of the decade.

The early works include construction of a 250-room camp at Amrun Village and development of an initial access road to the Kangwinan site.

Rio said the project will create over 800 jobs during construction and sustain employment for current Weipa mine workers as nearby operations close.

The final investment decision is scheduled for 2026, contingent on cultural heritage consultation with Traditional Owners, the completion of engineering and environmental studies, and regulatory approvals.

• [Editor:Alakay]