After decades of delays, the Simandou iron ore project is set to commence operations in Guinea. With a total investment of US$23 billion, it stands as the largest mining project in Africa to date.
The project is jointly developed by Rio Tinto Group, which holds a 25% stake, and several Chinese companies. It involves mining high-grade iron ore from an 8-kilometer ridge.
To facilitate ore export, a brand-new railway line and purpose-built port have been constructed. 
The launch of the Simandou mine will not only significantly elevate Guinea's status as a top mineral exporter but also further strengthen China's strategic influence in Africa's key mineral resources sector.