Venezuela is preparing to ship aluminum to the US as part of a deal with Mercuria Energy Group Ltd. and Heeney Capital. This marks a significant step in the revival of commercial ties between the two countries after years of economic and diplomatic isolation. The shipment will consist of approximately 15,000 metric tons of aluminum produced by state-owned Venalum and is expected to depart as early as Friday, September 20, 2026.
This aluminum cargo is the first to be bound for the US in several years, signaling a diversification of Venezuela's exports beyond its traditional oil focus. The agreement underscores a broader trend of commodity traders re-engaging with Venezuela following political shifts, including the ouster of former leader Nicolas Maduro.
Separately, Heeney Capital is expanding its involvement in Venezuela beyond aluminum. The investment firm signed agreements on September 16, 2026, granting it operational and export rights for a gold mine in Venezuela. This gold deal, a partnership with Mercuria Energy, is projected to involve an initial investment of up to $1 billion in the Choco mine, located in the industrial complex of El Callao, Bolivar state. This gold agreement is part of a larger push by Washington to encourage US investments in Venezuela's energy and mining sectors, with an emphasis on exports to the US.
