The demand for aluminium is expected to grow by more than 50 per cent by 2050
We are very optimistic about the domestic market. The vision of being a country whose industry is independent and self-reliant will need engineered aluminium products to meet the various end-user requirements. As it evolved, the construction industry has been influenced by the changing landscape of materials used and the need for faster execution of projects. Developers always try to ensure that their projects meet sustainability targets, are cost-effective, aesthetic in design, and durable; they are constantly on the lookout for a reliable resource for construction that makes the project stand out.
PRAGUN KHAITAN,
Vice Chairman and Managing Director, Jindal Aluminium
How do you look at the year 2023 for Indian infrastructure and construction sector?
We are very optimistic about the domestic market. The vision of being a country whose industry is independent and self-reliant will need engineered aluminium products to meet the various end-user requirements. As it evolved, the construction industry has been influenced by the changing landscape of materials used and the need for faster execution of projects. Developers always try to ensure that their projects meet sustainability targets, are cost-effective, aesthetic in design, and durable; they are constantly on the lookout for a reliable resource for construction that makes the project stand out.
The demand for aluminium is expected to grow by more than 50 per cent by 2050. The government's focus on creating the smart cities offers scope for the downstream aluminium segment to play a critical role in serving the needs of Smart Cities Mission. It is due to several factors such as its role in building a prosperous and sustainable economy. Touted as the metal of the future, it will take the technology of construction to newer heights.
What will drive growth of aluminium industry?
Over the next five to eight years, we see the industry moving towards consolidation. The consumption and demand by the industries for aluminium is going to be fulfilled by its inherent qualities. The automotive sector is witnessing a rising demand as aluminium is a significant contributor to light-weighting and the shift to EVs has seen the metal being sought after. Aluminium alloys are also crucial in the aerospace and aviation sectors, battery casings and such next-generation products. Being a metal that can contribute to larger sustainable initiatives makes aluminium fit to contribute to the green building concepts that modern construction is fascinated with.
Downstream aluminium producers need encouragement towards high-end production and value-added exports. This will not just echo the 'Make in India' and 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' objectives but also emphasize the progress of the overall value chain of the domestic aluminium sector.
How are you geared up for the year ahead?
Jindal Aluminium currently occupies approximately 25-30 percent of the market in the extrusion category and 10-12 percent in the rolling divisions' segment in India.
We have a manufacturing capacity of 1,50,000 metric tonnes per annum at the two manufacturing facilities in Karnataka, and have added another 14,000 metric tonnes per annum after acquiring and operationalising the Indo Alusys Bhiwadi (Rajasthan) plant. A part of capital expenditure will go towards de-bottlenecking the existing units and rest on upping capacities at the Bhiwadi plant. We target to take the Bhiwadi plant manufacturing capacity to up to 50,000 metric tonnes per annum in the nearest horizon.
In the flat-rolled division, our current production capacity is 50,000 metric tonnes per annum. We are shortly commissioning two new casters, increasing its capacity by 50%, taking it to 75,000 metric tonnes per annum from next financial year.
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