AFRICA investments in bauxite and alumina . Beavogui explains : “ Strategically the objective is upstream integration from bauxite mining to alumina refining and then to the existing aluminium smelting . Ownership of a controlling position in bauxite is an important factor .”
The GAC bauxite mine project is a cornerstone of this strategy , which will ultimately yield a vertically integrated business with the capability of self-managing the processes from mine to metal .
The acquisition led to GAC revamping its whole infrastructure . Beavogui walks us through the current project . “ Right now , we ’ re in the construction phase ,” she explains . “ We are constructing the infrastructure that will allow us to export bauxite . The global demand for high-quality bauxite is mostly in Asia , such as China , and is expected to grow significantly over the next decade .”
The infrastructure being built includes a multi-user port terminal , commercial quay and supporting infrastructure for mining , rail , and marine operations . GAC is also upgrading a rail system linking the mine to refinery locations , a harbour and channel works .
A later phase envisages the expansion of the bauxite mine and existing railway , expansion of the GAC Port Terminal and construction of an alumina refinery .
Differentiator The mining services sector is a majorly competitive business , with Guinea being a current focus for major foreign investment . However , Beavogui asserts that GAC is at an advantage . She explains : “ What differentiates GAC is the expertise . If you combine it with EGA , we have nearly 40 years of experience in the aluminium industry . We actively apply world-leading standards and technologies in all aspects of the project and we ensure that everything we do is in line with sustainable practices in environment , health and safety .” We ’ re struck by two further
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