Minim Martap bauxite project moves forward with rail upgrades and port preparations

Stock image for referential purposes only

Canyon Resources has increased its investments in rail and port infrastructure linked to its Minim Martap bauxite project in Cameroon as it prepares for its first bauxite shipment targeted for late Q3 2026.

The company’s subsidiary, Camalco, increased its stake in rail operator Camrail from 9.1 per cent to 26.9 per cent after making a payment of XAF 9.852 billion (USD 17.66 million). Canyon also acquired a 42.8 per cent stake in Port of Douala operator Terminal Bois du Port de Douala S.A. through an investment of around AUD 0.8 million (USD 579,000).

To know the long-term bauxite market forecast, book our report: “Global Bauxite & Alumina Market Forecast to 2036: Supply–Demand, Trade Flows & Price Outlook”

According to the company, the investments are aimed at improving coordination for the PQ2 rail upgrade and securing transport capacity for future bauxite shipments. Completion of the increased Camrail stake is expected in Q2 2026 after administrative registration.

Mining and transport preparations are also progressing at the project. Surface mining equipment was moved to the Daniel Plateau area in April, while trial mining is scheduled to begin in mid-Q2 2026. The company plans to build bauxite stockpiles at the mine site, Inland Rail Facility, and Port of Douala before exports begin.

Also read: Bauxite Hills output grows as Metro Mining maintains shipment outlook

Track laying work at the Inland Rail Facility and bulk earthworks at the port have already started to support rail operations and storage infrastructure.

Canyon said the first seven locomotives are expected to arrive at the Port of Douala in late Q2 2026, with rail wagons scheduled to arrive in July 2026. These are expected to support operations ahead of the first planned shipment in late September 2026.

Must read: Key industry individuals share their thoughts on the trending topics

The company is also continuing a feasibility study for a proposed alumina refinery, which is expected to be completed by Q3 2026. Discussions with potential offtake partners are ongoing, with agreements expected after initial shipments confirm ore quality.

The Minim Martap project ore reserve contains about 51 per cent alumina and around 2 per cent silica. Previous company updates described part of the deposit as a high-grade bauxite zone.

Canyon previously said Stage 1 capital requirements up to the first ore shipment are supported through existing cash reserves and a USD 140 million debt facility from AFG Bank Cameroon.

Don't miss out- Buyers are looking for your products on our B2B platform

The company had earlier indicated plans to raise its Camrail stake above 20 per cent. In April 2026, Canyon also announced the resignation of CEO Peter Secker and Non-Executive Director Scott Phegan.

The company said logistics execution, offtake agreements, funding, and regulatory approvals remain important factors for the project going forward.