Official data show that in the first quarter of 2026, Guinea's bauxite exports increased by 25.3% year-on-year to about 60.9 million tons, mainly driven by Chinese-related producers.
Guinea is the world's largest bauxite producer, with 70% of its exported bauxite shipped to China.
In the first quarter of this year, the Boké Mining Company (SMB) exported as much as 18 million tons; Aluminum Corporation exports reached 8 million tons, up 35% year-on-year.
However, the surge in production has not been accompanied by a proportional increase in revenue. Consulting firm CRU stated that Guinea's bauxite FOB prices have dropped to $32–38 per ton, the lowest level since March 2022. Due to weak demand squeezing profit margins, smaller miners face the risk of bankruptcy. Guinea's Minister of Mines previously revealed plans to implement export restrictions in April to boost prices.
According to CRU analysts, as government intervention takes effect, combined with seasonal disruptions, high fuel costs, and production cuts by some miners, bauxite production growth in the second half of 2026 will slow sharply.
Analysts also noted that Guinea may use a combination of tax reforms and export quotas to encourage miners to increase investment in railways, ports, and domestic refining capacity.
