XCMG signs $110m mining equipment deal

Rio Tinto Simfer has signed a $110 million contract with XCMG Machinery for the delivery of multiple large mining trucks, graders and excavators for a mining project in Guinea, Africa.

The deal with SimFer - which is a joint venture between Rio Tinto, the Republic of Guinea and Chalco Iron Ore Holdings – will cover machinery for the Simandou iron ore project in the southeast of the country.

Representatives of XCMG, SimFer and the Republic of Guinea at the contract signing in Conakry, the capital of Guinea. (Photo: XCMG)

The supply contract includes 34 of XCMG’s 230 tonne mining trucks, dozens of large mining graders, as well as large production loaders and excavators.

Both companies said they were committed to investing in vocational training programmes that will aid community development around the mining area.

“Following a competitive tender process, we are pleased to award the HME contract to internationally renowned XCMG,” said Chris Aitchison, Managing Director of SimFer.

“This contract—with its robust provisions for community development and technical training—reflects our project partners’ commitments to maximizing the benefits of the Simandou project through local content, prioritization of local employment and upskilling, and investment in vocational and technical skills.”

Aboubacar Koulibaly, Head of Rio Tinto Guinée, added that the project would be “a key driver of growth in Guinea – catalyzing a new wave of investment, building the country’s entrepreneurial fabric and supporting development across the country.”

Liu Jiansen, Vice President of XCMG Machinery, said the deal marked a new beginning of cooperation between XCMG and Rio Tinto; “Over the years, XCMG and Rio Tinto have developed a deep friendship through cooperation.

“We are honored to provide high-quality, large-scale sets of mining equipment for the Simandou project in West Africa. We thank Rio Tinto for their trust,”