Aluminium Bahrain (Alba) announced on June 2 that it has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Bpifrance to acquire 100% of Aluminium Dunkerque, the largest aluminium smelter in the European Union, for approximately USD 2.2 billion. The agreement was formalized in Paris during the Choose France Summit and included representatives from Alba, American Industrial Partners, and Bpifrance.
The transaction will be fully financed by a consortium of Alba’s banking partners. As part of the agreement, Bpifrance will invest EUR 100 million in the transaction and hold a 6% ownership stake in Aluminium Dunkerque upon completion of customary approvals. Bpifrance will also join the Board of Directors of Aluminium Dunkerque’s holding company.
His Excellency Shaikh Salman bin Khalifa Al Khalifa said this acquisition reflects strong economic ties between Bahrain and France and demonstrates international confidence in Bahrain as an investment destination. He said it reinforces Bahrain’s position as a competitive industrial hub with local talent capable of pursuing global opportunities.
Khalid Amro Al-Rumaihi, Chairman of Alba’s Board of Directors, said: “[The] acquisition is a defining moment for Alba that demonstrates strong confidence in the company’s promising potential and long-term growth prospects, and represents a strategic step towards building a more diversified and competitive international industrial platform – one that strengthens Alba’s presence in global markets and supports its capacity to achieve sustainable growth.” He added that this partnership creates important opportunities to enhance industrial resilience both in Bahrain and France.
Nicolas Dufourcq, CEO at Bpifrance, said: “Alongside Alba, Bpifrance’s investment in Aluminium Dunkerque underscores our commitment to securing and reinforcing the long-term future of this strategic industrial site. By joining forces, we are not only supporting the growth of a key player in the European aluminium sector but also ensuring that Aluminium Dunkerque remains a cornerstone of France’s industrial resilience and innovation.” Dino Cusumano from American Industrial Partners said, “We remain confident that Alba is the right long-term owner for Aluminium Dunkerque.”
Located at Loon-Plage near Dunkirk, Aluminium Dunkerque produces around 300,000 tonnes annually with advanced automation systems and an integrated production process.
