Liberia Secures Historic $3.5 Billion Mining Deal as ArcelorMittal Extends Partnership to 2050
Moses Papaye Gibson
Monrovia, Liberia: ArcelorMittal has reaffirmed its long-term commitment to Liberia following the ratification of the Third Amendment to its Mineral Development Agreement (MDA) with the Government of Liberia a landmark move that secures the company’s operations in the country through 2050, with an option to renew for an additional 25 years.
The agreement marks a defining moment in Liberia’s economic trajectory, paving the way for what is now projected to be a $3.5 billion total investment—the largest foreign direct investment in the country’s post-war history.
At the heart of this expansion is ArcelorMittal Liberia’s state-of-the-art iron ore concentrator plant in Tokadeh, widely regarded as one of the most advanced beneficiation facilities in Africa.
The concentrator significantly improves the quality and value of iron ore produced in Liberia, enabling the country to compete more effectively on the global market.
Production capacity is set to increase dramatically from 5 million tonnes to 20 million tonnes per year by 2026—a fourfold expansion that positions Liberia as a major player in the global iron ore supply chain.
To support this growth, rail infrastructure will also be expanded, increasing transport capacity to up to 30 million tonnes annually. The upgraded rail system will not only enhance efficiency but also open doors for broader sectoral development and potential third-party usage in the future.
The expanded agreement is expected to generate thousands of direct and indirect jobs, providing new opportunities for Liberians across mining, engineering, logistics, and community services.
Beyond employment, the deal is projected to significantly boost:
Government revenues through taxes, royalties, and fees
Local business development and supply chain participation
Skills transfer and workforce training
Infrastructure development in host communities
For more than two decades, ArcelorMittal Liberia has invested heavily in national development supporting roads, railways, healthcare facilities, schools, and community initiatives. The renewed agreement strengthens these commitments and deepens the company’s integration into Liberia’s long-term development framework.
The ratification of the Third Amendment sends a strong signal to international investors about Liberia’s stability and readiness for large-scale, long-term partnerships. It reinforces confidence in the country’s mining governance framework and its ability to attract transformative investments.
The company officials describe the agreement as a transformative milestone one that reflects mutual trust between the Government of Liberia and ArcelorMittal, while laying the foundation for sustainable economic growth and shared prosperity.
As Liberia advances its national development agenda, the extended partnership represents more than a mining contract it symbolizes economic resilience, industrial modernization, and renewed global confidence in the country’s future.
With production scaling up, infrastructure expanding, and billions in investment secured, Liberia is entering a new chapter one defined by opportunity, growth, and long-term strategic partnership.
