Rio Tinto Q3 Aluminium Output Falls 2% to 842,000 Tonnes

Rio Tinto's aluminium production declined 2% year over year in the third quarter of 2026 as the planned closure of its Arvida smelter offset improved performance at Kitimat and Boyne. Alumina production moved in the opposite direction, rising 10%.

By Paul Ploumis
Published October 15, 2026

MONTREAL (Scrap Monster): Rio Tinto recorded a modest decline in aluminium production in the third quarter of 2026, with the planned closure of its Arvida smelter offsetting gains at several other facilities.

The mining major produced 842,000 tonnes of aluminium during the quarter, down 2% from the corresponding period last year. Improved operating performance at its Kitimat smelter in British Columbia and Boyne facility in Queensland helped limit the decline.

At Kitimat, higher pot and amperage levels, supported by better operating conditions and reservoir levels, contributed to increased output. Boyne also benefited from improved operational stability.

AP60 Smelter Continues Ramp-Up in Quebec

Meanwhile, commissioning activities continued at Rio Tinto's AP60 smelter in Quebec, where construction is nearing completion. Further ramp-up work is scheduled for 2026, with full production capacity expected by 2027.

Alumina Output Rises as Yarwun Faces Constraints

The company's alumina business delivered stronger results, with quarterly production rising 10% year over year, supported by improved performance at Queensland Alumina Limited. Output also increased 3% from the second quarter as reliability improved at QAL, Yarwun and Vaudreuil.

However, Yarwun's production is expected to fall 40% in the fourth quarter of 2026 because of tailings constraints. The adjustment is projected to reduce annual output by approximately 1.2 million tonnes, while extending the refinery's operating life to 2035.