CAPE-TOWN, Feb 17 – Liberia expects iron ore production to reach 30 million metric tons in 2026, up from around 10 million tons last year, driven by ArcelorMittal Liberia’s ramp-up and new projects from other producers, according to Mines Minister, Matenokay Tingban.
ArcelorMittal, headquartered in Luxembourg, is investing in expanding its Liberian operations, including a new concentrator, upgraded rail links, and port facilities.
The company plans to ship 20 million tons of iron ore this year, up from historical levels of roughly 5 million tons annually. The railway supporting the operations is being upgraded to handle 30 million tons per year under a long-term agreement that also provides the government with $200 million in fees.
Other mining companies, including Cavalla Resources, Westcrest, Zodiac, and Bao Chico, are expected to contribute additional volumes as new and revived operations come online. Gold production is also projected to rise, with Mansa Resources’ Dugbe mine increasing output.
The government is reviewing its mining law to attract investment and increase state participation. Proposed changes include introducing a free-carried state equity of 10%–15% per project, targeting 25% in the long term. Royalty rates will remain at 4.5% for iron ore, 3% for gold, and 8% for heavy mineral sands. Officials said the Ministry of Justice will determine how new equity terms apply to existing projects.
The ministry is also cataloguing critical minerals such as lithium, following Chinese geochemical surveys, to support future strategic production.
Tingban noted that Liberia aims to shift from a royalty-only model to one combining royalties with state equity, to fund infrastructure, create jobs, and increase government revenue from the mining sector.
Overall, the combination of ArcelorMittal’s expansion and new mining entrants is expected to raise Liberia’s total mineral output significantly, with estimates of a 25%–30% increase in 2026 depending on project timelines and operational ramps.
