Guinea's bauxite exports to China increased by 38.3% to 38.2 million tonnes last year, marking the second year the West African country beat Australia for the top spot, according to Banchero Costa analyst Chong Hui Ru.

The surge followed extensive Chinese investment in Guinea’s mines and logistics infrastructure.

“The development of bauxite supplies in Guinea continues to look very positive as they continue to increase production aggressively,” Chong said.