President Ali: Bauxite sector rebounds after collapsing under APNU+AFC administration

President Dr. Irfaan Ali delivered a scathing critique of the APNU+AFC administration on Sunday night, highlighting the severe decline of Guyana’s bauxite sector under their leadership and the subsequent resurgence achieved under the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) government.

During his live address, President Ali provided a detailed account of the sector’s decline, attributing it to mismanagement by the previous administration between 2015 and 2020.

He cited a sharp 40 per cent drop in production during that period and significant job losses, with over half the workforce in Region 10, primarily from Linden, losing their jobs.

“The bauxite sector collapsed completely under the APNU+AFC government. Between 2014 and 2020, total production contracted by 40 per cent. More than 50 per cent of the workers, primarily from Region 10, lost their jobs,” President Ali emphasised. “The closure of Rusal further compounded the sector’s woes.”Upon assuming office in 2020, the Dr. Irfaan Ali-led Administration embarked on an aggressive strategy to rebuild the sector.

President Ali outlined the steps taken to reverse the decline, focusing on reducing operational costs, diversifying product offerings, and boosting production.

“We had to rebuild the sector and restore the 50 per cent of jobs that were lost. This was critical not just for the sector but for the economy of Linden and Region 10 as a whole,” he explained.

Key measures included the issuance of additional reserves in Kara Kara, amounting to 3.5 million tons, and facilitating significant investments by the Bosai Minerals Group. As a result, production increased by 250,000 tons in 2024, with a projected rise of 400,000 tons in 2025. Exports are also expected to surge to $163 million by the end of 2024.

“The installation of a new kiln in Linden, the first since the 1970s, and the adoption of modern technologies have spurred tremendous growth in the sector,” President Ali stated.

The President announced that the Bosai Minerals Group has committed to constructing a $470 million aluminium plant, marking a significant milestone for the sector. Additionally, efforts to reduce energy costs through the installation of a solar PV system are underway, further enhancing the sector’s sustainability.

“By reducing costs and expanding production, we are creating a future where the bauxite sector contributes meaningfully to Guyana’s economic development,” President Ali said. “We’ve also worked closely with companies to protect workers’ rights and improve conditions of service.”

In his address, President Ali drew a stark comparison between the APNU+AFC and PPP/C administrations. He criticised the former for failing to invest in critical infrastructure, such as hinterland and mining roads, which he said were vital for supporting bauxite mining and other productive sectors.

“The APNU+AFC government killed productivity in this country. In contrast, the PPP/C government is building back, investing in infrastructure, and driving an upward trajectory for our nation,” he asserted.

President Ali concluded by reaffirming his administration’s commitment to fostering growth across all sectors of the economy, ensuring that both small and large-scale operators thrive.