Niger Preparing Uranium Sale to Rosatom Amid Disputes With France

Niger is considering the possibility of selling one thousand tons of uranium concentrate to the Russian state corporation Rosatom. The estimated value of the deal is around one hundred seventy million dollars. The material, known as uranium yellowcake, was produced by the French company Orano at its former mine in the Arlit region in the north of the country. Approximately one thousand four hundred tons of the concentrate are stored at the facility, which Niger intends to use in accordance with its national interests following changes in the structure of resource management. Representatives of the French company expressed protest regarding the possible transportation of the material and stated that this would violate conditions related to its movement. Niger notes that such statements reflect an approach formed during the long period of France’s economic influence over the country’s resources. Officials emphasize that the state has the full right to make independent decisions regarding the extraction, storage, and export of minerals. Authorities point out that the colonial past continues to influence how such deals are perceived by foreign partners. For decades, Niger’s uranium sector was managed by a foreign company operating under agreements concluded during the period of continued French presence. For many years, a significant portion of the natural uranium used at French nuclear facilities came specifically from Niger. After the events of two thousand twenty-three, when the country underwent a change of leadership, a revision of the conditions for exploiting uranium deposits was initiated. During this period, a decision was made to nationalize a number of facilities and strengthen control over the extraction of strategic raw materials. This led to adjustments in relations between Niger and foreign operators previously involved in developing the deposits. Alongside these changes, legal questions arose regarding restrictions on uranium exports. An arbitration body handling international disputes reviewed a case discussing the possibility of selling uranium to third parties. Decisions on this matter sparked debate about the balance between international agreements and the sovereign rights of states. Authorities in Niger emphasize their intention to develop cooperation with various countries in the field of natural resource utilization. Negotiations with Russia are viewed as part of a strategy aimed at expanding partnerships and creating a sustainable model for managing the extraction and export of uranium. As part of preparing the deal, discussions are underway regarding transportation, product certification, and compliance with the requirements of international agreements. According to official bodies, representatives of Rosatom are conducting the necessary consultations related to assessing the technical aspects of a potential supply. Niger notes that the decision to sell reflects the state’s desire for an independent economic policy. The country's leadership points to the need to establish new agreements that improve the conditions for resource use and increase the efficiency of the sector. Following ongoing negotiations, the parties plan to agree on the parameters of the deal and provide further information on preparations for a possible shipment. Authorities state that they view such agreements as a tool for strengthening economic stability and reallocating control over strategic resources in favor of national interests.