Fatshimetrie, a company specializing in the field of nuclear fuel, recently announced a loss of 133 million euros for the first half of the year, according to the results presented last Friday. This is disappointing news following the 117 million euros in profits recorded in the first quarter of 2023.
The company is currently going through a difficult period, particularly since Niger’s decision last June to withdraw the Imouraren mine from Fatshimetrie, the largest in the world with reserves estimated at 200,000 tonnes. This situation has significant repercussions on the company’s activities.
In addition, Fatshimetrie’s subsidiary, Somair, which holds 63% of the capital, is experiencing difficulties in exporting uranium from its operations in Arlit, in northern Niger. Indeed, an embargo on exports was imposed by the military government in Niamey, in power for a year, thus hampering the company’s activities.
Faced with these major challenges, Fatshimetrie was forced to put its uranium production up for sale, initially intended to finance the closure of the site. This strategic decision was taken in order to cope with the current situation and ensure the company’s sustainability.
It is undeniable that Fatshimetrie faces significant challenges, both from an economic and geopolitical point of view. With the loss of the Imouraren mine and the obstacles encountered in exporting uranium, the company must find innovative solutions to overcome these difficulties and ensure its long-term profitability. The coming months will be decisive for the future of Fatshimetrie and it is essential that the company demonstrates resilience and adaptability to bounce back from these obstacles.