The Guinea Shipping Corporation (GSC) launched its operations through a major contract for the transportation of raw materials from the West African nation to customers around the world.

The GSC was created 10 years ago, but has remained dormant until today.

Formed of a joint venture between Corporate Capital Consultants, based in Hong Kong, and the Société Navale Guinéenne (SNG), the State shipping company of the Republic of Guinea, the company will focus on the management and operation of bulk carriers ocean ships to ship bauxite and alumina and other minerals from Guinea to international markets.

“GSC will provide a quality driven service to our customers in Guinea. We are looking to build a modern fleet and we are in the process of securing suitable vessels and financing,” Henrik Christensen, Chief Executive of GSC said.

“We signed our first contract to deliver five million tons of bauxite and have entered into a long term contract with SNG which is entitled to carry 50 per cent of the production of mining companies (excluding CBG) operating in the country,” he added.

For his part, Marmady Touré, Director General of SNG said: “The launch of GSC is a significant development for Guinea in building its global trading capabilities and developing its maritime sector. We are confident that GSC will grow and support Guinea’s goal of expanding its international commercial presence.”

Guinea’s enormous potential for raw materials has reshaped patterns of international dry bulk trade in recent years with large quantities of bauxite and iron ore from the West African nation destined for China.