Niger says no uranium sold since nationalising Orano subsidiary

Legal dispute blocks sales

The junta that seized power in July 2023 forced the nationalisation of Somaïr, which operates the Arlit uranium mine, and announced plans to market the concentrate directly. According to Colonel Abarchi, around 1,800 tonnes of yellowcake valued at $380 million are in storage. « We have not sold anything yet, » he said, pointing to « at least ten procedures » by Orano, which he called « legal harassment ».

Orano, contesting the nationalisation, says it has launched four arbitration proceedings, one of which resulted in a ruling barring Niger from disposing of the stocks. The minister acknowledged that potential buyers, including some states, had expressed interest but withdrew due to legal risks. He insisted however that talks are underway with « serious » partners without elaborating.

Growing global nuclear market

The lack of sales contrasts with the nuclear sector’s momentum, with global output hitting a record in 2024 spurred by Asian growth. New reactors are planned, such as the South Korea-Vietnam pact for the Ninh Thuan 2 nuclear project. These developments highlight uranium’s strategic importance, with Niger holding about 5% of world reserves.

Junta leader General Abdourahamane Tiani had offered in March to return to France its « share » of uranium extracted before his takeover, around 100 tonnes. « But everything produced since then is Nigerien and will stay Nigerien, » he insisted. Orano declined to comment on the minister’s latest remarks.