Emirates Global Aluminium EGA has disputed Guinea’s decision to revoke its subsidiary’s mining title and award it to Nimba Mining Company S.A. The company announced on August 6, 2025, that it will seek international arbitration to protect its contractual rights.
Guinea terminated its Basic Agreement with Guinea Alumina Corporation (GAC), a wholly owned subsidiary of Emirates Global Aluminium EGA. The decision halted bauxite mining and exports from the Boké region. It also affected more than 3,000 jobs linked to the project.
EGA UAE reported a 23 percent drop in 2024 net profit, citing the suspension of GAC operations and the introduction of UAE corporate tax. The company also recorded a significant write-down tied to its Guinea business.
Supply Chain at Risk if Dispute Drags On
According to EGA UAE, GAC invested $244 million in Guinea in 2024 through infrastructure development and local employment initiatives. The company stated it would pursue full legal remedies under international law to secure its assets and agreements.
EGA said that Guinea is very important to its business around the world. For the reason that it provides high-quality bauxite that its alumina refinery and aluminum smelters in the UAE need to work. A long pause in operations could affect EGA’s supply of raw materials and put pressure on the Gulf’s aluminum industry as a whole. Analysts say the situation may also make foreign investors more cautious about political and regulatory changes in Guinea’s mining sector.
Experts point out that international arbitration is often a lengthy process, potentially taking months or even years. In the meantime, EGA may need to look for alternative sources of raw materials to keep production on track. While the company says it is open to working with Guinean authorities to find a solution. It has also made clear it will defend its legal rights if talks fail.
Emirates Global Aluminium EGA confirmed that it is closely monitoring the situation and will continue legal proceedings while maintaining its obligations to stakeholders.
