Alkagesta today announces the formation of Alkanavex, a Malta-based joint venture established in partnership with France-headquartered steel trader Navex SAS. The new entity marks Alkagesta's official entry into metals trading, with an initial operational focus on steel as a strategically important commodity for global construction and industrial supply chains.

Alkanavex combines Alkagesta's global trading footprint, logistics capabilities and governance framework with Navex's deep market expertise and operational track record. Over the past two years the partners have aligned their commercial models, compliance practices and governance structures. Alkagesta will hold a majority stake in the joint venture, and both parties are now progressing through legal formalization and operational integration.

Navex, founded by industry veterans, contributes long-standing sourcing relationships, primarily in China, and established client networks across West and East Africa. Jean-Pierre Artigala, CEO of Navex, brings extensive experience from senior roles in leading steel groups, supporting the joint venture's ambition to develop resilient supply corridors and reliable service to industrial customers.

Pierre Gay, Member of the Board of Alkagesta, commented: "Alkanavex represents a shared vision to build a high-performing, well-governed and globally competitive steel trading platform." Orkhan Rustamov, CEO of Alkagesta, added: "With prudent risk management and strong governance, metals trading is a natural extension of our activity and a material growth opportunity."