Liberia Showcases Mining Potential Ahead of African Mining Week

The showcase comes at a time when Liberia is positioning itself as a major mining destination in West Africa, supported by growing interest in iron ore, gold and critical minerals.

Liberia is stepping up efforts to attract international investment into its mining sector as the country accelerates exploration activities, expands geological mapping programmes and pursues new partnerships aimed at unlocking its vast mineral resources.

The country will spotlight these opportunities at African Mining Week (AMW) 2026, scheduled to take place in Cape Town, South Africa, from 14 to 16 October. The event will feature a dedicated Liberia Country Showcase, bringing together government officials, mining companies, investors and technology providers to discuss emerging opportunities across the country's mining value chain.

The showcase comes at a time when Liberia is positioning itself as a major mining destination in West Africa, supported by growing interest in iron ore, gold and critical minerals.

Liberia Eyes Larger Role in Global Iron Ore Market

Iron ore remains the backbone of Liberia's mining industry, and the country is aiming to significantly increase production over the coming years. Government projections indicate that Liberia plans to nearly triple iron ore output to around 30 million tonnes per annum in 2026. This expansion comes as global markets prepare for a potential supply shortfall estimated at approximately 15 million tonnes annually by 2030.

In a major development earlier this year, Liberia extended ArcelorMittal's Mineral Development Agreement for the Tokadeh Mine until 2050. The extension signals the government's commitment to maintaining long-term partnerships with international mining companies while expanding production capacity. Officials believe increased iron ore output will strengthen export revenues, create jobs and enhance Liberia's position within global commodity markets.

Focus Expands Beyond Iron Ore

While iron ore remains a priority, Liberia is increasingly focusing on the development of critical minerals and other untapped resources. Government estimates suggest that roughly 80% of the country's geology remains unexplored, presenting significant opportunities for future discoveries.

Speaking earlier this year, Mines and Energy Minister Matenokay Tingban highlighted plans to intensify exploration activities targeting lithium and various base metals, commodities that are becoming increasingly important for clean energy technologies and global industrial development. Liberia hopes that expanded exploration campaigns and improved geological data will help attract new investors seeking exposure to emerging critical mineral markets.

Gold Sector Gains Momentum Through New Investments

The country's gold industry is also attracting growing investor attention. Pasofino Gold strengthened its position in Liberia through its 2026 acquisition by Mansa Resources, which operates the Dugbe Gold Project. The transaction is expected to support further development of one of Liberia's most significant gold assets.

Zodiac Gold continues advancing its exploration activities across several projects, contributing to the government's broader strategy of building a more diversified and industrialised mining sector. Authorities view gold development as an important complement to iron ore production, helping broaden the country's mineral portfolio and reduce reliance on a single commodity. Liberia is targeting approximately $4.8 billion in combined oil and mining revenues during 2026, reflecting the growing importance of extractive industries in its economic development plans.

At African Mining Week 2026, Liberian officials are expected to highlight regulatory reforms, investment incentives and opportunities across exploration, production, logistics, mineral processing, trading and mining services as they seek to attract global capital and technology partners to support the next phase of the country's mining growth.