Josieann Richards is a spokeswoman for Trinidad-based Alutrint. She says preparatory work has already started at the La Brea construction site and the smelter is expected to be finished in roughly 22 months by 1,500 Chinese labourers.

Trinidadian workers will eventually operate the site in the southern coastal area. Once operational, Alutrint says about 800 people will work full time at the smelter and industrial park.

Richards said the smelter - a joint venture between Trinidad and Sural, a Venezuelan company - is due to start production in 2011.