Niger uranium on international market after Orano dispute

Niger’s military regime has announced plans to sell uranium produced by Somair, a formerly French-owned subsidiary, on the international market. This move comes after the regime nationalized the company in June, sparking a standoff with Orano, the French giant that previously operated mines in Niger for decades.

The announcement was made on state television, Tele Sahel, citing comments from General Abdourahamane Tiani, the head of the junta. Tiani emphasized Niger’s right to dispose of its natural resources independently, according to market rules. This development has significant implications, given Russia’s expressed interest in mining uranium in Niger. In July, Russian Energy Minister Sergei Tsivilev stated that Moscow wanted to explore uranium mining opportunities in the country.

The junta’s decision to nationalize Somair and other Orano-operated mines is part of a broader shift in Niger’s foreign relations. Since seizing power in 2023, the military regime has turned to Russia for support in combating the country’s jihadist insurgency, while distancing itself from former colonial power France. Niger has accused France of backing separatist groups, leading to a deterioration in relations between the two countries.

Orano, which is 90% owned by the French government, has operated mines in Niger for decades and retains a 60% stake in the nationalized subsidiaries. The company has initiated arbitration procedures to regain operational control of the mines, which include Somair, Cominak, and Imouraren, home to one of the world’s largest uranium deposits. In 2022, Niger accounted for approximately a quarter of the natural uranium supplied to European nuclear power plants, according to Euratom data.

The move to sell uranium on the international market reflects Niger’s desire to assert its independence and exploit its natural resources. As the country navigates its complex relationships with global powers, the fate of its uranium industry remains a critical issue. With Russia’s interest in uranium mining and the ongoing dispute with Orano, Niger’s decision is likely to have significant repercussions for the global nuclear energy market.