In July 2025, it was reported that a new soil & water sample study conducted by civil society organization Advocates for Community Alternatives (ACA) revealed pollutions at the project area of the Simandou Iron Ore Project, run by Rio Tinto, Winning Consortium Simandou, Chinalco, China Hongqiao Group and China Baowu Steel Group. Water samples show elevated acidity and bacterial contamination, making water unsafe for consumption. Soil samples showed heavy metal levels surpassing safety thresholds and acidification of farmland, threatening food security. Additionally, residents reported structural damage to homes and community infrastructure due to construction activities, posing serious health risks, particularly to vulnerable populations like children and pregnant women.

On 2 August, Rio Tinto and Winning Consortium responded to journalists saying they are committed to developing the project responsibly.

Business and Human Rights Resource Center reached out to Chinalco, China Hongqiao Group and China Baowu Steel Group for comment. They did not respond.