By Saskia Warrick | January 14, 2025
Bauxite production reached new heights in 2024, surpassing 1.7 million tonnes, representing a remarkable 225% increase from the 523,732 tonnes produced in 2023.
This surge in output marks a major recovery following a period of decline in production from 2014 to 2020, during which output dropped by approximately 40%.
Minister of Natural Resources, Hon. Vickram Bharrat, credited the growth to enhanced operations in mining regions, which also contributed to the creation of more job opportunities.
The bauxite sector’s success is part of a broader trend of significant growth across various industries in the Natural Resources sector in 2024.
Additionally, the quarrying industry saw strong performance, with stone and aggregate production rising to over 3.3 million metric tonnes, and sand production increasing from 8 to 11 million metric tonnes.
This growth is largely driven by the booming construction sector. However, quarry exports have been reduced to prioritize local demand.
The year 2024 has been one of exceptional growth, further cementing the country’s mining and natural resources industries as key drivers of economic expansion.