Simandou Sends Its First Iron Ore Shipment to Global Markets

The departure of the first iron ore shipment from the Simandou project marks a decisive turning point for Guinea, signalling the transition from years of planning and development to full scale commercial operations. This inaugural export, which took place on December 2, 2025, represents far more than the movement of raw materials, it reflects the culmination of complex engineering work, long term investment, and multi stakeholder collaboration that has shaped one of the most ambitious mining projects in modern African history. The successful loading and departure of the MV WINNING YOUTH also demonstrates the readiness and reliability of the integrated infrastructure built to support Simandou’s long term production strategy.

The initial 200,000 ton cargo exported from the Port of Morebaya was jointly produced by Winning Consortium Simandou and Rio Tinto Simfer, underscoring the coordinated effort between public and private partners to operationalize this world class deposit. The operation highlighted the port’s high level of efficiency, from ore reception to vessel loading, confirming that the new logistics facilities are performing to international standards. This first shipment is equally significant because it showcases the seamless integration of the mine, railway corridor, port infrastructure, and maritime services, all of which are essential for ensuring stable long term supply to global markets.

The milestone shipment is also a testament to the years of sustained collaboration, capital investment, and technical innovation that have made Simandou a reality. In the coming months, project stakeholders are expected to concentrate on improving mining productivity, optimising railway throughput, and enhancing port turnaround times. These efforts aim to secure consistent export volumes, strengthen customer confidence, and position Simandou as a reliable contributor to the global iron ore supply chain.

In broader terms, the successful launch of Simandou’s export phase has important implications for Guinea and the wider African mining landscape. The project is expected to generate substantial economic gains, stimulate industrial development, and elevate Guinea’s strategic standing within the global steel value chain. Furthermore, by enabling the production of higher grade iron ore, Simandou is set to support the worldwide shift toward greener steelmaking, which could reinforce Africa’s role in advancing environmentally responsible mineral supply. Overall, this milestone signals a transformative period for Guinea’s mining economy, with long term benefits likely to reverberate across the region.

Mini Glossary

• Logistics chain: The full system that manages the movement of materials from extraction to delivery.
• Turnaround time: The period required to complete a loading or unloading process at a port.
• Throughput: The volume of material a transport system can handle within a given period.
• High grade iron ore: Iron ore with high iron content, which allows for cleaner and more efficient steel production.

Editor: Vural Burç ÇAKIR