Project overview

Simandou is a world-class iron ore mining project located in the south-east of Guinea. Rio Tinto develops the project in partnership with the Government of Guinea, Chalco and the International Finance Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank Group.

The concession licence-holder and project company is Simfer S.A., which is currently owned 50.35% by Rio Tinto, 44.65% by Chalco and 5% by IFC.

The Republic of Guinea will have the right to take a stake of up to 35% in Simfer S.A. (the mine) and a 51% stake in a Special Purpose Vehicle to own the Project Infrastructure (rail & port).

The Simandou Project comprises three principal components:

• an iron ore mine of 95 million tonnes per year at full production;
• a Trans-Guinean railway of approximately 670 km to transport the ore from the mining concession to the Guinean coast; and
• a new deepwater port south of Conakry in the Forécariah prefecture.

Simandou will be the largest integrated iron ore mine and infrastructure project ever developed in Africa, with the potential to transform the Guinean economy and transport infrastructure.

Rio Tinto develops Simandou with the highest standards of health, safety, sustainability, environmental responsibility and corporate governance.  The first shipment of ore is expected by mid-2015.

As one of the world's biggest mining companies, Rio Tinto brings technical expertise and steadfast commitment to Sustainable Development that is born from the experience of over than 65,000 employees operating in over 65 countries. 

Significant contribution to Guinea

With our partners, we are committed to make, through the Simandou project, a lasting contribution to Guinea and its people.

The project is already creating jobs, improving infrastructure, increasing economic development, bringing international expertise to Guinea and enhancing environmental conservation.

With the Government of Guinea we work toward common goals focusing on ensuring our investments align with priority development plans and dovetailing our efforts in improving health, education, agriculture, infrastructure development and training.