Brazil aluminum output edges up

Brazil's primary aluminum output in January-October reached 668,100t, up 1.3% year-on-year, according to industry association Abal.

However, production in October fell 0.1% compared to the same month last year to 67,900t, a third consecutive monthly decline. Full-year 2016 output totaled 792,700t.

Abal comprises CBA, part of local conglomerate Votorantim, as well as Alcoa, BHP, Albras and Novelis.

Ranked ninth among the world's largest aluminum producers, Brazil has slipped several places in the last few years in the global upstream segment. However, it is still a major player with an integrated chain that includes bauxite mining, alumina refining and primary aluminum production.