Emirates Global Aluminum announces $4B smelter investment in Oklahoma

Governor Kevin Stitt announced a significant economic development during his weekly press briefing, highlighting the establishment of the Emirates Global Aluminum (EGA) smelter facility in Oklahoma. This marks the first aluminum smelting factory built in the United States in 45 years, representing a $4 billion investment in the state. The project is expected to create approximately 1,000 direct jobs with an average wage exceeding $80,000 annually, along with 1,800 jobs during the construction phase.

Stitt emphasized that this development not only showcases Oklahoma's pro-business environment but also positions the state as a key player in the manufacturing sector. The aluminum produced at the facility will serve as a foundational material for various other manufacturing industries, potentially attracting additional companies that rely on aluminum for their products.

The governor also discussed the broader implications of this investment, linking it to national security and supply chain resilience. He noted that President Trump’s recent initiatives aim to encourage manufacturers to establish operations in the U.S., thereby reducing reliance on foreign sources, particularly in critical sectors like semiconductors.

In addition to the EGA facility, Stitt mentioned a memorandum of understanding signed with Raytheon for the supply of gallium, a byproduct of aluminum production, which is essential for semiconductor manufacturing. Currently, the majority of gallium is sourced from China, making this local supply chain development particularly significant.

As the state prepares for this transformative project, Stitt opened the floor for questions, indicating a commitment to transparency and community engagement regarding the impacts of this investment. The EGA smelter is poised to not only boost Oklahoma's economy but also enhance its strategic importance in the national manufacturing landscape.