Mauritania stands as a cornerstone of the African mining landscape, particularly renowned for its vast iron ore resources and a well-established extraction industry. Driven by the state-owned Société Nationale Industrielle et Minière (SNIM) and strategic international partnerships, the sector is undergoing significant expansion aimed at boosting production capacity while pioneering a transition towards more sustainable, value-added products aligned with global decarbonization trends.
A Wealth of Resources and Established Production:
Mauritania’s geological wealth is substantial, boasting an estimated 20 billion metric tons of iron ore reserves. Particularly rich veins, holding around 2 billion metric tons, are concentrated in the Reguibat Ridge area in the north.
In 2023, the country produced 14 million metric tons of iron ore, affirming its position as the second-largest producer on the African continent, surpassed only by South Africa. This solid foundation is the launchpad for ambitious growth.
Looking ahead, Mauritania has set a clear target: to more than triple its annual iron ore production to 45 million metric tons by 2030. This expansion is strategically focused not just on volume, but also on enhancing product quality, specifically increasing the output of high-grade iron ore and pellets crucial for modern, low-carbon steel manufacturing processes worldwide.
Key Projects Driving Expansion and Modernization:
Several key projects underpin this growth trajectory, spearheaded by SNIM and its partners:
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SNIM Core Operations: SNIM continues to operate its key mines around Zouerate, including Guelb El Rhein, Kedia d’Idjill, and M’Haoudat. These operations form the bedrock of current production and are central to the planned capacity increase towards the 45 million tons/year goal.
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F’Derick Project (SNIM & TAKRAF Group): This collaboration focuses on enhancing processing capabilities, involving the development of a complete crushing, screening, materials handling system, and an efficient train loading station, marking a significant upgrade for SNIM’s infrastructure.
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Atomai Project (Takamul – SNIM & SABIC JV): Located near Zouerate, this major joint venture aims to add 10 million tons per year of production capacity, potentially starting around 2026. Critically, it includes plans for both dry/wet processing near the mine and a pellet conversion plant near the port city of Nouadhibou, linked by a dedicated 640-km railway for efficient logistics.
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El Aouj Project (SNIM & Glencore): This partnership targets an annual output of 11.3 million tons of high-grade iron ore. The focus on pelletisation directly supports the global demand for cleaner feedstocks in steel production.
A Wealth of Resources and Established Production:
Demonstrating remarkable foresight, SNIM has partnered with global steel leader ArcelorMittal to explore the development of green hydrogen-powered pelletisation plants. This initiative perfectly aligns Mauritania’s mining strength with its burgeoning green hydrogen potential, positioning the country at the forefront of sustainable steel value chains.
Robust Infrastructure Development:
Recognizing that ambition requires robust logistics, Mauritania is making significant infrastructure investments:
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The Nouadhibou mineral port access channel is being expanded, backed by a $46 million loan from the African Development Bank (AfDB), facilitating larger vessels and increased export volumes.
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Ongoing development and upgrades of railway networks connecting mining centers to export terminals are crucial enablers.
Vital Economic Contribution:
The iron ore sector is undeniably vital to Mauritania’s economy, currently contributing approximately:
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59% of national exports
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9.6% of GDP
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10.4% of government revenue
Conclusion: A Future Forged in Iron and Innovation:
Mauritania’s iron ore sector presents a compelling narrative of growth, strategic partnership, and forward-thinking adaptation. By significantly expanding production capacity, investing in crucial infrastructure, and actively embracing the transition towards sustainable steelmaking inputs through pelletisation and green hydrogen integration, Mauritania is solidifying its role as a reliable and innovative global supplier. This positions the nation as an attractive destination for investment and partnership within the evolving international metals and mining industry.
