The Malian Ministry of Mines has granted Kodal Minerals the export permit for the spodumene concentrate from the Bougouni Lithium Project, located in the south of the country. This authorization represents a key step forward for the commencement of commercial operations at the deposit.
The official document, signed by Minister Amadou Keita, authorizes the initial export of up to 125,000 tons of spodumene concentrate. This figure is subject to the completion of certain administrative procedures prior to the dispatch of the material.
The permit stipulates that transportation must be awarded to local logistics companies, in compliance with the Malian law on local content in the mining sector. In addition, export prices will be referenced to the Shanghai Metals Market (SMM), with the possibility of revision by the national authorities.
Kodal Minerals and its commitment in the region
The project is operated by Les Mines de Lithium de Bougouni SA (LMLB), a local subsidiary in which Kodal Minerals holds a 49% interest. The British company has confirmed that it has already signed transport agreements with a Malian logistics firm and that all applicable taxes and duties will be paid in accordance with current legislation.
Bernard Aylward, CEO of Kodal Minerals, stated that this permit represents “an essential step for the development of the Bougouni project and for the growth of the lithium sector in Mali”. He also indicated that preparations to mobilize the truck fleet are already underway.
With this approval, Mali positions itself as a potential African lithium supplier. lithium for the global energy transition. The spodumene concentrate, intended for export via Côte d’Ivoire, could open up new supply routes to Asian and European markets.
Source and photo: Kodal Minerals
