Akora Resources Limited is advancing detailed logistics modelling for the Bekisopa direct shipping iron ore project in Madagascar, focusing on haulage routes and export infrastructure to support the planned stage-one 2 million tonnes per annum operation.

The work follows the pre-feasibility study released in March 2025 and the granting of the mining permit in March 2026. The established 420-kilometre pit-to-port transport route comprises 130 kilometres of regional roads connecting to 290 kilometres along the national highway RN7. Recent in-country route surveys have identified an alternate regional route capable of reducing travel distance by 8% to 10%, which could lower road construction and operating costs.

Akora is conducting a trade-off study to evaluate the impact of using heavier haulage vehicles on regional roads against the capital cost required to reinforce roads and crossings to support heavier transport. Commercial discussions are also underway with established bulk transport operators to leverage local fleets and experience for the project's road haulage requirements.

Site visits to the prospective export port confirmed that existing infrastructure can handle projected volumes. The company plans to deploy a low-capital transshipment model using mobile feed conveyors and self-powered low-draft barges to transfer material from the wharf to ocean-going export vessels. Further refinement of transshipment operations is scheduled for the fourth quarter of 2026.

“We have made significant progress advancing detailed logistics modelling that underpins the stage-one 2Mtpa DSO haulage strategy. Site visits to our proposed export port have validated the infrastructure and capacity required to handle our stage-one DSO volumes, materially derisking our route to market. The identification of an alternate regional route that could unlock meaningful capital and operating cost savings provides the company with flexibility and optionality.”

— Peter Bird, Managing Director and CEO

Alongside engineering studies, the company is nearing completion of its detailed community development planning process, which forms a key component of the environmental and social impact assessment underway since 2024.

Read the full announcement: Critical Supply Chain Optimisation for the Bekisopa Project