WAM Abu Dhabi, June 27th, 2012 (WAM) -- EMAL has announced the launch of a new added value product in 2012: foundry aluminium which is mainly used in the automotive sector. The addition of foundry to EMAL's portfolio is part of its long term vision of producing more value added products as it develops into one of the world's largest single-site aluminium smelters. Total annual production at the Al Taweelah will rise to 1.3 million metric tonnes once the Phase II expansion is completed in 2014.

EMAL President and CEO, Saeed Fadhel Al Mazrooei, said: "As a world-leading company, operating in a global market, it is important that EMAL is flexible to changing demand. The automobile sector is an important and growing segment in the aluminium market , and EMAL is not only well placed to manage this growing demand both in terms of our product development and marketing strategy, but also well placed to respond to customer demand for flexibility while retaining our commitment to provide quality products at value cost." By 2013 total annual sales of EMAL is forecasted to increase by 5 per cent. Currently Asia (excluding China) is EMAL's biggest regional market with 50 per cent of total sales based on 2011 sales figures. EMAL sales in Europe are projected to grow from 23 per cent in 2011 to 35 per cent by 2013. Overall sales growth will be achieved by concentrating on growing countries such as Japan and Germany, with strong automotive markets.

On the development of foundry products at EMAL, Al Mazrooei added: "It is another important step forward as it will expand our customer base and help grow the business for the future prosperity of the country." WAM/AM