Liberia has entered into a $1.8 billion agreement with U.S.-based Ivanhoe Atlantic Inc. to rehabilitate and utilize its key railway corridor to export iron ore from neighboring Guinea, marking one of the country’s largest infrastructure deals in recent years.
The U.S. Embassy in Monrovia called the agreement “a critical step” in supporting President Joseph Boakai’s infrastructure strategy, which includes transitioning Liberia to a multi-user rail model. The policy aims to allow open access for multiple mining companies to share the rail network, replacing the current exclusive-use framework that favors ArcelorMittal Liberia—whose contract expires in 2030.
Though official details remain limited, the embassy described the deal as a milestone for attracting foreign investment and enhancing regional trade. The timing also coincides with the opening of the U.S.-Africa Leaders Summit in Washington, hosted by President Donald Trump.
Ivanhoe Atlantic is expected to use the rehabilitated rail line to transport iron ore from its Kon Kweni project in southeastern Guinea to Liberia’s coast. The project’s first phase is forecast to deliver 2–5 million tons annually, with a future target of up to 30 million tons per year.
The railway line—stretching from Guinea through Liberia to the port—offers the shortest and most cost-effective route for shipping ore to global markets. A representative of Liberia’s port authority confirmed that the project will strengthen trade logistics and create thousands of jobs across the corridor.
President Boakai’s administration has emphasized open-access infrastructure as key to Liberia’s economic revitalization and regional integration.
Ivanhoe Atlantic did not issue a comment following the announcement.