Guinea, the world's top bauxite producer, is considering introducing export quotas for mining companies as early as this month, according to four sources familiar with the matter, as global prices for the aluminum feedstock retreat and shipping costs climb, squeezing revenue.

Guinea’s bauxite exports jumped 25% in 2025, with more than 70% shipped to China.

Global bauxite prices have fallen 20% to 35% from 2025 highs on Guinea's surprise shutdowns, experts estimated.

Two industry sources and a government source said export quotas for individual mining projects were under assessment, though no decision has been taken and details remain unclear.

Guinea accounts for 40% of world's bauxite output

A mining executive said the move would be limited to large producers. The sources asked for anonymity due to the sensitive nature of the discussions.

Guinea accounts for more than 40% of the global bauxite supply and the government has moved aggressively to clean up the mining sector, which also hosts vast reserves of iron ore, gold and lithium.

Freight costs, driven by the war on Iran, are also squeezing producers.

African nations are taking tougher steps to earn more from their commodities, imposing export controls, higher royalties and domestic processing requirements.