Aurubis, a global leader in non-ferrous metals and the largest copper recycler worldwide, has been at the forefront of sustainable metal recycling for almost 160 years. Headquartered in Hamburg, Germany, the multimetal provider is represented worldwide in more than 20 countries on three continents. Aurubis operates an efficient and sustainable smelter network for primary and secondary materials in Europe, and soon also in the United States of America. The company is committed to transforming raw materials into valuable metals while adhering to the highest standards of sustainability and compliance.

Aurubis in the Middle East: A Strategic Expansion

In September 2024, Aurubis expanded its footprint by establishing Aurubis Middle East DMCC. This strategic move aims to enhance the company's recycling materials intake from the Middle East, North Africa, and our main CIS markets. Alexander Blazhev, the Managing Director of Aurubis Middle East, leads the newly established company from Dubai, the region's trading hub.

Aurubis sees immense potential in the Middle East region. The economies of the GCC countries are experiencing rapid growth, driven by numerous investment and demolition projects. This growth promises an increasing availability of scrap materials, which is crucial for Aurubis' recycling operations. The Dubai office plays a pivotal role in understanding the dynamics and needs of local partners, enabling Aurubis to develop tailored solutions that strengthen its competitive position.

"The Middle East market offers tremendous growth potential in scrap, alloys, and copper-containing industrial residues, as well as in high-value and high-margin materials such as e-waste and tin," says Alexander Blazhev. "With our new office in Dubai, we are closer to our suppliers – it allows us to select the most sustainable partners that align with our high sustainability and compliance standards."

Significant Growth in the First Six Months

The first six months of operations have been highly successful for Aurubis Middle East. The company has seen significant volume growth, with a substantial increase in purchases and the addition of new material streams to its portfolio. This growth is a testament to the region's potential and Aurubis' strategic approach.

"We have been able to significantly increase our purchases and anticipate further growth in the coming months," Blazhev adds. "Our presence in Dubai helps us to be even more present in the local market and develop the right solutions to meet the needs of our partners."

Commitment to Sustainability and Compliance

Aurubis' commitment to sustainability is a cornerstone of its operations. The company integrates sustainable conduct and business activities into its corporate culture, ensuring a careful approach to natural resources and responsible social and ecological conduct. This commitment is reflected in Aurubis' sustainability policy, which emphasizes responsible sourcing, decarbonization, and adherence to the highest environmental standards.

"Our mission is to responsibly transform raw materials into value, providing metals for an innovative and sustainable world," states Blazhev. "We are confident that Aurubis will establish a stable and long-term presence in this region, as it is among the fastest-growing worldwide in terms of industrial and green energy investments, construction, and large-scale demolition projects."

Aurubis' Global Impact

Aurubis produces over one million tons of copper cathodes annually, which are then transformed into various products such as wire rod, continuous cast shapes, profiles, and flat-rolled products. The company's portfolio includes 20 metals, among those are precious metals, selenium, lead, nickel, tin, zinc, sulfuric acid, and iron silicate. With around 7,000 employees worldwide, Aurubis is well-positioned to meet the growing demand for metals driven by global trends such as digitization, e-mobility, renewable energy and security applications.

Aurubis' expansion into the Middle East marks a significant milestone in the company's journey towards sustainable growth. Under the leadership of Alexander Blazhev, the company is set to work closely with partners to harness the region's potential and contribute to a greener, more sustainable future.