Orano’s Niger Uranium Joint Venture Nears Bankruptcy Amid Military Seizure, Export Ban

French nuclear company Orano's majority-owned uranium mining joint venture in Niger, SOMAIR, is on the brink of bankruptcy following export restrictions and operational control seizure by Niger's military government in December 2024. The government announced plans to nationalize the mine, citing historical imbalances and national sovereignty, while accusing Orano of extracting a disproportionate share of uranium production relative to its stake. Orano has warned that continued production costs imposed by Niger, despite a suspension of exports, have made the operation financially unsustainable. The dispute reflects broader regional trends of West African governments asserting control over natural resources and has disrupted uranium supply chains critical to France and the European Union, with Niger accounting for about 15% of Orano's uranium supply. The local mineworkers union accuses Orano of sabotage, a claim denied by the company, and Orano has criticized Niger’s state-owned partner SOPAMIN for not sharing production costs during low uranium price periods. Meanwhile, Orano remains open to dialogue but warns that unresolved issues threaten environmental safety and the future of uranium production in the region.