Reuters quoted Trinidad and Tobago's government as saying that it was canceling USD 600 million project to build 125,000 tonnes per year aluminum smelter in the Caribbean nation.

Mr Winston Dookeran finance minister of Trinidad and Tobago said during a presentation of the 2010 to 2011 national budget that in addition to the health and environmental risk, there is also serious concern as to Alutrint's viability and the optimal use of our gas. This project shall cease.

Brazilian conglomerate Votorantim Group has 40% stake in the proposed 125,000 tonnes per year aluminum smelter complex while the Trinidad and Tobago government held the remaining 60%.

The Environmental Management Authority had issued a Certificate of Environmental Clearance to Alutrint for the project. But a court quashed the certificate after anti-smelter groups and individuals filed for judicial review, claiming the EMA's decision was based on inadequate and flawed information.

(Sourced from Reuters)