Liberia Turns a New Chapter in Mining with First-Ever Iron Ore Concentrator

Monrovia, Liberia: Liberia’s mining sector has entered a transformative new era with the launch of the country’s first-ever iron ore concentrator, a facility expected to boost revenue, create thousands of jobs, and shift the nation from raw exports to value-added processing.

Speaking at the Ministry of Information’s regular press briefing on Thursday, June 12, 2025, Anthony P. Kocken, Acting Chief Executive Officer and Chief Operating Officer of ArcelorMittal Liberia (AML), described the concentrator as a “game changer” that reflects over two decades of partnership between AML and the Government of Liberia.

“This is not just a facility; it is a symbol of transformation and shared progress,” Kocken said.

The concentrator, officially inaugurated days earlier by President Joseph Nyuma Boakai and ArcelorMittal Group Chairman Mr. Lakshmi Mittal, is a flagship component of AML’s $1.8 billion Phase II Expansion Project. With this addition, the company’s total investment in Liberia reaches $3.5 billion, making it one of the largest private sector investments in West Africa’s iron ore industry.

The facility enables AML to process medium-grade ore into high-grade iron domestically, marking a significant shift in the country’s approach to resource management.

Equipped with state-of-the-art crushing, grinding, and magnetic separation systems, the concentrator will increase AML’s production from 5 million to 20 million metric tons annually. The plant is fully integrated with the 243-kilometer modernized rail system connecting Yekepa to Buchanan and enhanced port facilities to support international exports.

Building Liberian Talent for the Future

Beyond infrastructure, AML is investing heavily in Liberian human capital. The company operates tuition-free technical training academies, providing international-standard programs in mechanical, electrical, welding, instrumentation, and related fields.

163 graduates are already employed in AML’s operations.

138 trainees are currently enrolled.

122 graduates from a dedicated processing program are now employed.

An additional 90 are undergoing training.

AML is also expanding its Buchanan Technical Center to train more skilled workers for the mining and industrial sectors.

Huge Boost to National Revenue and Employment

The economic impact is significant. Kocken announced that AML’s operations are expected to raise national revenue from $35 million to over $125 million annually, contributing to national development in health, education, and infrastructure.

Over 5,000 construction jobs were created during the project phase.

More than 3,000 permanent jobs will be sustained.

Expanded local procurement and manufacturing partnerships are underway.

AML’s Community Social Development Fund, which benefits Grand Bassa, Bong, and Nimba counties, will increase to $4 million annually upon the conclusion of the third mineral development agreement.

Environmental Commitment and Long-Term Vision

Kocken reaffirmed AML’s commitment to sustainable development, including:

Investment in schools, clinics, hospitals, and scholarships.

Environmental protection efforts such as biodiversity conservation, land reclamation, and tree planting.

President Boakai, during the commissioning ceremony, described the project as “a new dawn” for Liberia’s mining industry shifting from raw ore exports to value-added production that benefits the country.

Kocken echoed that sentiment, noting AML’s long-term presence in Liberia and plans to expand production to 30 million tons annually.

“We are here for the long haul,” he said. “This project lays the foundation for Liberia’s industrial future and economic sovereignty.”