A landmark agreement has been reached between Trinity Metals, Africa’s largest tungsten producer, and Global Tungsten and Powders (GTP) of Pennsylvania, marking the first-ever direct and consistent supply of high-grade tungsten concentrate from Rwanda to the United States.
The deal, announced on August 28, 2025, positions Rwanda as a strategic supplier of one of the world’s most critical minerals, strengthening U.S. supply chains and national security at a time when global demand for tungsten is soaring.
Trinity Metals, which operates the Nyakabingo Mine and produces about 120 tonnes of wolframite (the host mineral for tungsten) each month, will ship tungsten concentrate (WO3) directly to the U.S. through its offtake partner Traxys. The mineral will be refined and processed by GTP, part of the Plansee Group, one of the world’s largest tungsten processors with over 100 years of expertise serving industries including aerospace, defence, electronics, and advanced manufacturing.
Tungsten is considered a critical raw material because of its widespread use in producing electrodes, wires, cutting tools, wear-resistant machinery parts, and military-grade components. Rwanda, already a top exporter of tungsten to Austria for industrial processing, is now expanding its reach by entering the U.S. market directly, a move that boosts both its economic potential and geopolitical relevance.
Commenting on the agreement, Shawn McCormick, Chairman of Trinity Metals, called the deal “historic” and highlighted the importance of working with America’s largest tungsten refiner. Eric Rowe, Plansee Group’s Director of Global Raw Materials, said the partnership will strengthen American industrial resilience by adding a responsibly sourced tungsten supply from Africa’s Great Lakes region. Mark Kristoff, CEO of Traxys, also praised the collaboration as a long-term alignment of shared values and sustainability commitments.
Founded in 2022 through the merger of Nyakabingo Tungsten Mine, Rutongo Tin Mine, and Musha Tin and Tantalum Mine, Trinity Metals has quickly risen as a global mining powerhouse. Beyond tungsten, the company has also identified a highly promising lithium deposit at Ntunga, further cementing Rwanda’s role as a key player in the global critical minerals market.
This milestone not only opens a new chapter for Rwanda’s mining industry but also reflects the growing importance of Africa in the global race for critical minerals essential for clean energy, technology, and defence.
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