Phosphate Mining: The Hidden Cost

About the Phosphate Exports

Each year, several vessels depart from El Aaiún, occupied Western Sahara, loaded with phosphate rock that was extracted without the consent of the Sahrawi people. This trade provides economic support for the Moroccan government's continued occupation of the territory.

The controversial trade has sparked legal challenges and corporate withdrawals, as international awareness grows around the ethical and legal ramifications of sourcing phosphate from an occupied land.

Historical Context

The phosphate deposits in Western Sahara were discovered in 1947 by Spanish geologists. Since Morocco's occupation in 1975, the exploitation of these resources has been a significant source of revenue for the occupying power. The Bou Craa mine, located in the northern part of Western Sahara, is one of the world's largest phosphate deposits.

Economic Impact

The phosphate industry in Western Sahara represents a significant portion of Morocco's mining sector. The revenue generated from these exports directly supports Morocco's occupation, with estimates suggesting that phosphate exports from Western Sahara contribute hundreds of millions of dollars annually to the Moroccan economy.

2023 Export Overview

In 2023, WSRW documented 39 vessels carrying an estimated 1.1 million tonnes of phosphate rock from Western Sahara. This marks an increase from 2022, in both the number of shipments and total tonnage exported.

Key Statistics

• Approximately 1.1 million tonnes exported
• 39 shipments tracked
• Primary importing countries include Mexico, India, and New Zealand
• OCP's customer base continues to shrink, though some long-standing buyers remain

Major Importing Countries

The phosphate trade network spans multiple continents, with significant imports going to agricultural powerhouses. Mexico remains the largest importer, followed by India and New Zealand. Several European countries continue to import smaller quantities, despite increasing legal and ethical scrutiny.

Shipping Routes

The phosphate is primarily transported through the Atlantic Ocean, with vessels often making stops in various ports before reaching their final destinations. The shipping routes are carefully monitored by WSRW and other organizations tracking the trade.

Legal and Ethical Concerns

The export of phosphate rock from Western Sahara is considered illegal under international law if conducted without the consent of the Sahrawi people. The 2002 UN Legal Opinion explicitly states that exploration and exploitation must not disregard the wishes and interests of the territory's people.

International Legal Framework

The United Nations has consistently maintained that the exploitation of natural resources in Western Sahara must benefit the Sahrawi people and be conducted with their consent. This position has been reinforced by multiple UN Security Council resolutions and legal opinions from the UN Office of Legal Affairs.

Corporate Responsibility

Several major companies have withdrawn from the trade following increased scrutiny and legal challenges. These include:

• Major fertilizer manufacturers in Europe
• International shipping companies
• Agricultural cooperatives in New Zealand and Australia

Environmental Impact

The mining operations have significant environmental consequences, including:

• Water resource depletion in an already arid region
• Dust pollution affecting local communities
• Disruption of traditional grazing lands
• Potential contamination of groundwater resources