Slovak Aluminum Plant Chief Criticizes Import Strategy After Domestic Production Cuts

The head of Slovalco aluminum smelter, Veselý, criticized Slovakia's approach to decarbonization, arguing that reducing domestic aluminum production has led to importing aluminum with a much higher carbon footprint. The executive pointed out that the average carbon footprint of aluminum production in China is approximately 16.5 tons of CO₂ per ton of aluminum, compared to roughly four tons per ton that Slovalco achieved. The statement highlights concerns about the environmental effectiveness of Slovakia's industrial policy, suggesting that efforts to reduce domestic emissions may be counterproductive if they simply shift production to countries with higher carbon intensities. Slovalco is one of Slovakia's major industrial facilities and a significant aluminum producer in Central Europe.