The Volta Aluminium Company Limited (VALCO) achieved strong operational and financial performance in the first half of 2026, driven by improved efficiency, increased production, and measures aimed at strengthening its competitiveness in the aluminium industry.

The performance was highlighted by the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, who said the company’s progress reflects the government’s broader agenda to promote industrial transformation and value addition.

The Minister highlighted the significance of the Electrical Grade Rod Mill, stating that “the facility is currently in the test production phase, manufacturing electrical-grade aluminium rods for both the domestic and European markets.”

The development marks a strategic shift from VALCO’s traditional focus on primary aluminium production towards higher-value manufacturing, positioning the company to support downstream industries and capture greater value within the aluminium value chain.

According to the Minister, the Rod Mill represents a move towards “higher value-added products” and is expected to support downstream manufacturing, create sustainable employment opportunities, increase export earnings and reduce Ghana’s dependence on imported aluminium products.

The development forms part of the government’s vision to deepen industrialisation by leveraging Ghana’s aluminium resources across the value chain rather than exporting mainly raw materials.

Once fully operational, the Rod Mill is expected to enhance Ghana’s position in the global aluminium market by enabling the local production of specialised aluminium products required by industries such as power, construction, and manufacturing.

VALCO’s improved performance comes as the company continues efforts to enhance operational efficiency and strengthen its role within Ghana’s industrial ecosystem. 

The company’s transition towards value-added production is also expected to provide opportunities for local businesses involved in aluminium processing, while supporting broader economic objectives around job creation, import substitution and export growth.

The Minister said the initiative demonstrates the government’s commitment to “industrial transformation” by building productive capacity and ensuring that Ghana captures greater value from its natural resources.