Guinea diverts ships from bauxite to iron ore for China’s green steel boom

Shipping services in Guinea are being disrupted as the West African country ramps up iron ore exports to feed China’s “green steel” production lines, taking advantage of higher prices. Vessels that usually transport bauxite—Guinea’s main export—have been diverted to carry iron ore instead, according to international shipbroking and maritime research firm Ifchor Galbraiths. The shift aims to maximize exports before heavy seasonal rains halt production. Analysts say increasing iron ore supplies from Guinea helps China meet its broader goal of producing steel with lower carbon emissions, a process known as “green steel.” The move reflects growing demand for cleaner industrial materials in the world’s largest steel market.