Guinea plans to reduce bauxite export volumes by early April to stabilize prices and protect smaller mining operations. Despite shipments reaching 183 million tons in 2025, oversupply and weak Chinese demand triggered a price decline. Rising freight costs caused by Middle Eastern conflicts further strained profit margins, threatening local jobs and government revenue.

Bouna Sylla, Guinea's Minister of Mines, is negotiating with companies to ensure production levels align with original investment promises regarding infrastructure and refineries.

By regulating output, Guinea aims to prevent a sharp market downturn that risks bankrupting smaller producers. This move reflects a trend among African nations implementing export controls to secure higher returns from their natural commodities.