Global iron ore giant ArcelorMittal will today officially dedicate a state-of-the-art Concentrator Plant in northern Liberia, marking a major milestone in the company’s Phase II expansion project. The event is expected to be attended by President Joseph Nyuma Boakai and ArcelorMittal’s Global CEO, Mr. Aditya Mittal.
According to a statement from ArcelorMittal Liberia, the mechanical completion and wet commissioning of the 15 million tonnes per annum (Mtpa) concentrator plant has been finalized. The facility is engineered to upgrade hematite ore with an iron content of 35–37% Fe to a high-grade magnetite concentrate of over 66% Fe.
The expansion of the Tokadeh operations includes significant infrastructure developments such as additional pit development, dewatering systems, a newly installed primary crusher, an ore handling system, and an overland conveyor linking to the concentrator.
The company also confirmed that the concentrator plant includes essential facilities such as a tailings storage area, a process water supply system, a power substation, a control room, and reagent storage units. Environmental compliance has been a priority, with all required permits secured and strict safety and environmental standards being enforced.
As part of its broader expansion, ArcelorMittal is investing heavily in upgrading Liberia’s rail infrastructure to support increased transportation capacity—from 5 Mtpa to 20 Mtpa. This upgrade includes enhancements to rolling stock, track systems, signaling, and logistics support.
Construction of the Concentrator Plant was carried out by a consortium of contractors, including WBHO. Key rail improvements include the installation of over 440,000 new sleepers, 230,000 meters of track geometry correction, ballast renewal, and expansion of the Buchanan rail yards and passing loops. An additional USD 25 million is currently being invested in contracted rail services.
To support the expanded production and transport capacity, ArcelorMittal has invested approximately USD 135 million in new rolling stock, including 16 locomotives and 700 wagons. A further USD 70 million has been allocated for procurement of critical rail materials such as steel sleepers, rails, fasteners, and other key infrastructure components.
ArcelorMittal Liberia’s Phase II expansion represents a transformative leap for both Liberia’s mining sector and the West African iron ore industry. With a total capital investment exceeding USD 2 billion, the project increases annual iron ore production capacity from 5 Mtpa to 20 Mtpa, positioning Liberia as a key player in the global high-grade iron ore market.
