Orano has filed for arbitration against Niger at ICSID due to disputes over the Imouraren uranium mine and operational control of Somair. The action follows Niger’s revocation of Orano’s mining license and its hindrance of product exports, leading to financial difficulties for Orano. The case holds implications for Niger’s uranium supply in European nuclear power plants, especially for France.
Orano, a French mining corporation, has initiated arbitration proceedings against Niger concerning the Imouraren uranium mine and its operational control over Niger’s Somair mining company. This action was filed with the International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID) on March 5, following unsuccessful mediation attempts in December 2024 and January 2025.
The dispute arose after Niger cancelled Orano’s mining license for the Imouraren uranium mine on June 19, 2024, in response to Orano’s proposal to expedite the exploitation of the deposit. In December, Orano also lost control of Somair, of which it is the majority stakeholder, amidst a board resolution to temporarily halt expenses to sustain salaries and operations.
Due to Niger’s refusal to permit product exports, Orano is now experiencing significant financial challenges. The firm seeks damages for Niger’s obstruction of its production commercialisation and violation of offtake rights. This situation has wider implications, particularly for Niger as it supplies about 25% of the uranium utilized in European nuclear power plants, a vital resource for France’s electricity generation.
Orano has engaged Clay Arbitration, a French law firm, for representation. Additionally, in January 2025, Canadian uranium company GoviEx also lodged a claim against Niger at ICSID, indicating a trend of escalating disputes in the country’s mining sector.
In summary, Orano’s arbitration filing against Niger underscores critical issues surrounding mining operations and international investment disputes. The revocation of the mining license, loss of control over Somair, and consequential financial distress illustrate the contentious relationship between the two parties. Furthermore, the situation highlights Niger’s significant role in the uranium supply chain for nuclear power in Europe, particularly for France.
Original Source: www.africanlawbusiness.com
