Ghana is a major producer of bauxite, being the 3rd largest producer in Africa. The Ghana Bauxite Company produced 700 000t of bauxite in 2000, short of the projected 740 000t. However, production continues to be hampered due to the poor infrastructure linking the mines to the port facility located at Takoradi . An estimated 180 000t stockpile remains at the minesite, unable to be shipped due to the rail linkage problems. The governments’ 35% share has been sold to Canadian aluminum company, Alcan, giving it sole ownership. It is clear that in order for the Ghana Bauxite Company to continue increasing production, infrastructural upgrades will be necessary along the 480km long rail linkage between the mine and port facilities. It is interesting to note that Ghana exports bauxite to Scotland and Canada, but imports alumina for refining purposes.

Alcan Inc

Through it 80% owned subsidiary, Ghana Bauxite Company, Alcan produces bauxite for its refineries in Europe and North America.