French company loses permit for major uranium mine in Niger

Niger has confirmed the return of one of the world's largest uranium mines to public control after revoking the operating license of French nuclear fuel producer Orano. The Imouraren mine in northern Niger was excluded from Orano, leading to tensions between France and the West African country's military rulers. The government justified revoking the license by stating that Orano failed to honor its commitments despite receiving formal notices from the mines ministry. Orano, on the other hand, expressed readiness to contest the decision while emphasizing its compliance with the government's wishes. The Imouraren mine, holding an estimated 200,000 tonnes of uranium crucial for nuclear power and weapons, had its development frozen due to plummeting uranium prices post the 2011 Fukushima disaster. Niger's military rulers, who took power in a July 2023 coup, have been reviewing mining concessions to assert national sovereignty. They have shifted away from France towards Russia, aiming to expand influence in the region. Niger supplied a significant portion of natural uranium to European nuclear power plants in 2022, highlighting its importance in the global uranium market. The withdrawal of the operating permit from Orano by Nigerien military authorities has heightened tensions with the former colonial power. Niger, a key uranium supplier globally, faced production delays at the Imouraren mine despite favorable market conditions. Orano, with over 50 years of operations in Niger, emphasized its responsible partnership approach and willingness to engage with the authorities while reserving the right to challenge the permit withdrawal. The decision underscores the evolving dynamics in Niger's mining sector and its strategic alliances amid changing geopolitical landscapes. The Imouraren mine's significance as a major uranium deposit and Niger's role as a key uranium supplier underscore the implications of the permit withdrawal. The move reflects the junta's assertiveness in reevaluating foreign partnerships and asserting control over strategic national resources. The ongoing developments at the mine and the broader implications for Niger's economy and geopolitical relations with France and Russia will continue to shape the country's trajectory in the global uranium market and regional dynamics.