Giant mining trucks head for Guinea

China’s XCMG Machinery has dispatched the shipment of its flagship mining trucks for use on Guinea’s giant Simandou iron ore project in West Africa

The XCMG XDE260 mining trucks are destined for the SimFer mine, part of the Simandou mega project, which is being developed by an international consortium.

SimFer S.A. is a joint venture between Rio Tinto, CIOH (a Chinalco-led consortium), and the government of Guinea.

In a statement, XCMG announced that the truucks were produced at its “intelligent manufacturing base” in China and mark a significant milestone, “showcasing Chinese manufacturing excellence at the world's largest untapped high-grade iron ore reserve.”

It added: “This shipment signifies that XCMG and Rio Tinto are working together more closely than ever, deepening their collaboration in the field of high-end mining equipment.”

The delivery is part of a major equipment supply contract valued at nearly RMB 800mn (approximately US$114mn), signed in 2024, that includes the provision of large-capacity mining trucks, motor graders, and select auxiliary equipment.

“This collaboration is a profound partnership based on our shared commitment to sustainable development,” said Yang Dongsheng, chairman of XCMG.

“XCMG has always been driven by technological innovation, striving to provide global clients with smarter, more environmentally friendly integrated solutions.”

The new XDE260 mining trucks — flagship models engineered specifically for West Africa's operating conditions — are designed to maximise productivity while minimising environmental impact, he added.

XCMG has deployed a dedicated service team of over 100 specialists to West Africa to offer localised, round-the-clock technical support for optimal operational efficiency.

A multinational expert team from China, Guinea, and Australia is also benchmarking the equipment against global best practices in mining operations, ensuring the Simandou mine achieves its planned production capacity efficiently and sustainably throughout its lifecycle.

XCMG’s local entity is also providing vocational education and professional training to locals.

“Together, we aim to fullfil our shared social responsibilities and empower local employees by enhancing their skills and fostering career development,” said a spokesperson for XCMG Simandou Company.

In its statement, XCMG said that it planned to continue deepening its involvement in Africa and other global markets to showcase its technology, machinery and further its commitment to nurturing the communities in which it operates.

“From exporting high-end mining machinery to integrating China’s intelligent manufacturing capabilities with international standards, XCMG is accelerating its evolution — from global expansion to sustainable market leadership,” the statement read.

“Moving forward, XCMG will remain innovation-driven and customer-focused, providing robust support for the mining industry's low-carbon transition and helping shape a more sustainable future for global resources.”

Read more:

Simandou partners celebrate start of operations

XCMG delivers 200 machines across regions

XCMG Machinery invests in Africa tech talent