French Nuclear Firm Orano to Halt Uranium Production in Niger Over Export Challenges

Somaïr, a uranium company primarily owned by the French firm Orano, has announced that it will suspend production in Niger from October 31 due to financial difficulties and problems with exporting its product. According to Orano, it cannot continue working in a country ruled by a military regime for fifteen months, Malijet reported.

The suspension comes amid ongoing tensions between Niger’s military regime, which took power in July 2023, and foreign companies. The government, led by General Abdourahamane Tchiani, has repeatedly said it wants to thoroughly review the system of exploitation of raw materials by foreign companies in the country. It has also moved closer to countries like Russia while distancing itself from France.

Orano said despite efforts to get export permits from the military government, no responses have been received. It said closed borders with Benin and failed attempts to export uranium via Namibia have left the company with no options. Therefore, production at Somaïr’s site in Arlit will stop, though maintenance will continue.

Niger’s authorities have not yet responded to the situation. Earlier in June, Niger had revoked Orano’s permit for the Imouraren deposit, one of the largest uranium reserves in the world.

Also, On September 19, 2024, the Nigerien government adopted two draft decrees to create state-run uranium and gold companies to ensure the country manages its resources independently and for the benefit of its population.

A total of 1,050 tonnes of uranium concentrate from 2023 and 2024, nearly half of the site’s usual yearly output, is currently stuck, with a market value of around 300 million euros, according to the company, which is 90 per cent owned by the French government.

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