In a major breakthrough for Guinea's mining sector, the Chinese giant State Power Investment Corporation (SPIC) is set to begin construction of the country's largest alumina processing plant. This announcement, confirmed by the Guinean presidency, marks a decisive turning point in the country's industrial development strategy.
The project, slated to commence construction in March 2025, is expected to have an annual production capacity of 1.2 million tons of alumina—twice the capacity of the existing United Company Rusal Friguia refinery. This state-of-the-art facility is projected to be operational by the end of 2027, significantly boosting Guinea’s capacity for local bauxite processing.
SPIC’s commitment extends beyond the alumina refinery. The group also plans to build a 250-megawatt power plant, with 100 megawatts to be injected into the national grid. This substantial contribution to the country’s energy infrastructure reflects the project's integrated approach.
This initiative aligns with the Guinean military government's policy of encouraging local processing of mineral resources. As the world's leading exporter of bauxite, Guinea aims to maximize the added value of its natural resources. This strategy has been reinforced through firm measures, such as the suspension of Emirates Global Aluminum (EGA) bauxite shipments in November 2024 until the company accelerates its refinery project.
The government has set strict deadlines for SPIC, warning that its mining concession could be revoked if commercial production is not achieved by December 2028. This firm stance highlights the authorities’ determination to ensure that mining companies contribute significantly to the country's economic development.
State Power Investment Corporation (SPIC), a major player in China's energy sector, has already made its mark in Guinea, exporting 3.14 million tons of bauxite in 2023. As one of China's largest state-owned enterprises, SPIC is globally recognized for its expertise in energy and natural resources. Its growing presence in Guinea underscores the strengthening Sino-Guinean cooperation in the mining sector.
This ambitious project not only represents a significant step toward Guinea’s industrialization but also reinforces the country's position as a key player in the global aluminum value chain. It demonstrates Guinea’s ability to attract major investments while enforcing conditions that promote its economic development.