Russian aluminum producer Rusal suspended its operations in Guyana as the unrest continues. As a result of serious illegitimate actions that have gone beyond the control of government and enforcement agencies, including arson of the electricity pylon basement and other corporate property, and blocking of the river, RUSAL said it was prudent to suspend and mothball operations of the Bauxite Co. of Guyana (BCGI). Written notices of termination have been sent to 326 employees.
As the unrest impacting the company’s operations continues, RUSAL said it believes the opportunities for doing further business in Guyana are now severely limited. All expatriate employees have been relocated. The suspension of BCGI will have no impact on the company’s overall performance, as the expected decline in the overall bauxite supply from Guyana will be substituted with raw material from other mines, the company said.