Simandou Project: Guinea Takes a Decisive Step with the Signing of Contractual Documents Related to the Maritime Transport of Iron Ore from Simandou

The process of operationalising the world’s largest integrated mining and infrastructure project has reached a new milestone. On Wednesday, 22 October 2025, industrial partners Rio Tinto/Simfer, Winning Consortium Simandou (WCS), Baowu, and the Government of Guinea, through the Simandou Strategic Committee, signed shareholder agreements for the maritime transport companies responsible for shipping iron ore from the Simandou project.

The ceremony, held at the Petit Palais of the Presidency, was presided over by Mr Djiba Diakité, Chairman of the Simandou Strategic Committee and Minister Director of the Presidency’s Cabinet, in the presence of the Minister Secretary General of the Presidency, General Amara Camara, and members of the Simandou Strategic Committee.

The signing represents one of the final stages before the start of Simandou iron ore mining operations, expected before the end of 2025. It reflects the commitment of the Head of State, His Excellency General Mamadi Doumbouya, to making the Simandou project a driving force behind the structural transformation of Guinea’s economy.

The companies established under this agreement will be responsible for the maritime transport of iron ore from the Morebaya docks, using modern and efficient vessels. These strategic logistics facilities will complete the ore export chain and enhance the operational efficiency of the project.

In his remarks, Mr Djiba Diakité stated that this milestone symbolises the unwavering commitment of all project partners, particularly that of the Head of State, His Excellency General Mamadi Doumbouya, to bringing the Simandou project to fruition. He reiterated that the contracts are not only economic agreements but also instruments of mutually beneficial cooperation and partnership between Guinea and its international partners.

He further highlighted that the local processing of Simandou ore remains an absolute priority, with comprehensive studies for a steel plant to be completed within two years of initial production to ensure the creation of added value within Guinea.

Representatives from Rio Tinto/Simfer, WCS, and Baowu commended the collaborative effort and political will that made this achievement possible. They acknowledged the crucial support of the Head of State, whose vision and commitment accelerated the development of the infrastructure required to commence production.

Guided by the vision of the President of the Republic, the Simandou project serves as a catalyst for the Simandou 2040 Programme and reflects the profound transformation of Guinea as it diversifies its economy and accelerates its structural development. This progress demonstrates the determination of a sovereign nation to take control of its resources and shape its own economic destiny. Members of the Strategic Committee welcomed the signing of these agreements as a tangible example of this national resolve.

The Simandou project represents more than an integrated mining and infrastructure initiative; it is a project of economic sovereignty and national integration, marking the largest undertaking of its kind ever launched globally.

It comprises four main components:

1. Two high-grade iron ore deposits mined by Winning Consortium Simandou (blocks 1 and 2) and Rio Tinto Simfer (blocks 3 and 4);
2. A multi-service, multi-user railway over 650 kilometres long, with double track, linking the mining prefectures of Beyla and Kérouané to the deep-water port of Morebaya;
3. Three port berths at Morebaya — one for WCS/Baowu, one for Rio Tinto/Simfer–Chinalco, and a third dedicated to the transport of goods and passengers;
4. A steelworks for local ore processing, with feasibility studies to be completed within two years of operations commencing.

The Simandou project also prioritises local content through three objectives:
• Prioritising employment opportunities for Guineans;
• Supporting business participation by Guinean-owned enterprises;
• Training Guineans to ensure skills and technology transfer, notably through the “Simandou Academy” initiative.

These commitments embody the vision of the Head of State — to make Simandou a project that fosters inclusion, training, and national prosperity.