Rio Tinto Iron and Titanium (RTIT) will, in the next months, permanently close the operations of the metal powder plant at the Critical Minerals and Metallurgical Complex in Sorel-Tracy.

This difficult but necessary decision, taken based on in-depth analysis, is attributable to a decline in the metal powder market due to developments in the combustion engine automotive industry, as well as overcapacity among metal powder producers, resulting in pressure on prices and a decline in sales. The strike by unionised employees at the powder plant, which has been ongoing since July 2025, has accelerated the decline in sales to a level that no longer ensures the viability of the powder plant.

Jean-François Gauthier, Managing Director, RTIT – Quebec Operations, said: ‘‘The permanent closure of the metal powder plant is a difficult decision, but one that is necessary to ensure the viability and competitiveness of RTIT – Quebec Operations, in Sorel-Tracy and Havre-Saint-Pierre.

We acknowledge the impacts of this decision on the employees, clients and community in Sorel-Tracy, and support measures will be put in place to assist them during this transition period.’’

RTIT mining and port operations in Havre-Saint-Pierre will continue, as well as the titanium dioxide, high purity iron, steel billet and scandium oxide production at the Critical Minerals and Metallurgical Complex in Sorel-Tracy while Rio Tinto is continuing its strategic review of RTIT assets announced in August 2025.

Where possible, the metal powder plant will continue to honour its contracts and agreements with customers and suppliers before permanently ceasing operations by the end of 2025.

Author: Andy Cormack