Guinea plans bauxite export curbs to support prices and boost local processing

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Guinea is expected to introduce reforms next month aimed at restricting bauxite exports after a surge in supply pushed global prices sharply lower.

According to reports, Guinea’s bauxite shipments rose around 25 per cent to 183 million tonnes in 2025, with export growth continuing to accelerate during the first quarter of 2026.

The country currently accounts for more than one-third of global bauxite production and remains one of the world’s most important suppliers of the ore used to make aluminium.

Mining and geology minister Bouna Sylla said the sharp increase in exports contributed to a near 50 per cent drop in bauxite prices from peak levels recorded early last year.

Sylla said the government wants to regulate export volumes in order to stabilise prices and prevent supply from exceeding demand.

The new export policy, which was first discussed earlier this year, is expected to be finalised in June.

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Most of Guinea’s bauxite exports are shipped to China, where the ore is refined into alumina before being processed into aluminium.

The proposed reforms are part of a broader trend among resource-rich African nations seeking greater value from their mineral exports rather than relying mainly on raw material shipments.

Countries such as the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Zimbabwe have also introduced restrictions linked to exports of critical minerals including cobalt and lithium.

Alongside export controls, Guinea is continuing efforts to develop domestic refining and aluminium processing capacity.

The government is encouraging mining companies to invest in alumina refineries within the country, with several projects already under development or construction.

These include projects linked to State Power Investment Corporation, Aluminum Corporation of China and a consortium led by Winning International Group.

Sylla also said Guinea intends to attract investment into aluminium smelting, describing the transition from alumina refining to aluminium production as a natural next step for the country’s mining sector.

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