By: Energy capital & power

The Simandou iron ore project in southeastern Guinea is set to commence its first shipments in November 2025.

The project is divided into four blocks. Blocks 3 and 4 are being developed by the Simfer joint venture, comprising mining companies Rio Tinto, Chalco Iron Ore Holdings and the Government of Guinea.

Blocks 1 and 2 are managed by the Winning Consortium Simandou, which includes Singapore-based Winning International Group, China Hongqiao Group’s Weiqiao Aluminium and United Mining Suppliers. Chinese firms control 75% of the project’s output, with Rio Tinto holding the remaining 25%.

Once fully operational, the Simandou mine is expected to produce up to 120 million tons of iron ore annually.

The project includes the construction of a 622Km railway connecting the mining site to a new deep-water port, facilitating the export of iron ore, primarily to China. With construction milestones achieved, the project is on track to begin operations as scheduled.