Canberra says Russia is relying on Australia for 20 percent of its alumina needs, and the export ban will limit its aluminum production capacity.
Australia has extended its sanctions against Russia over the war in Ukraine, banning all exports of alumina and bauxite to limit Moscow’s aluminum production capacity.
In announcing the export ban on Sunday, the Australian government said “Russia is relying on Australia for almost 20 percent of its alumina needs” and that the move would affect Russia’s aluminum production.
Aluminum is an important export commodity for Russia.
The Australian export ban comes just days after Canberra sanctioned oligarch Oleg Deripaska, who owns a stake in Queensland Alumina Limited, a joint venture between Russian aluminum company Rusal and mining giant Rio Tinto. The latter promised to sever all business ties with Russia.
Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison said his government is working with partners to “put the maximum price, put maximum pressure on the Putin regime to leave Ukraine.”
Morrison said Australia had imposed 476 sanctions against Russian individuals and entities since the invasion began.
He also announced that Australia would donate 70,000 tons of thermal coal to Ukraine at the besieged country’s request.
“We understand that it can provide electricity to up to a million homes,” he said.
In addition, Australia will increase its humanitarian aid by an additional A$30 million ($22.3 million) and donate another A$21 million ($15.6 million) for defensive military assistance to Ukraine, including ammunition and body armor.
In recent weeks, the government has approved the issuance of nearly 5,000 visas to Ukrainians displaced by the conflict in recent weeks, Morrison said.
He announced that Ukrainian refugees would be eligible for a new three-year humanitarian visa that would allow them to work, study and access the country’s healthcare system.