Friday 03 / January / 2025
Muscat: The Sultanate of Oman has marked a significant milestone with the export of its first shipment of copper concentrates in 30 years. The shipment departed from the Al-Asail mine in Sohar, North Al Batinah Governorate, via Sohar Port. This achievement underscores Oman's commitment to economic diversification and sustainable development.
Engineer Matar bin Salem Al-Badi, CEO of Oman Minerals Development Company, hailed the export of 900 tonnes of copper concentrates as a crucial step, demonstrating the company's ability to transform challenges into growth opportunities. He also expressed anticipation for the upcoming commencement of operations at the Al-Bayda mine, which is expected to further enhance the project's value and bolster the sustainability of Oman's mining sector.
Al-Badi emphasised the historical significance of this event, noting the region's 3,000-year history of copper mining, including the pioneering work of the Oman Mining Company since 1983. He highlighted the advancements in exploration and extraction technologies that have enabled the reopening of mines, enhancing the value of these resources and contributing to the sector's economic and social impact. The Al-Asail mine, located in concession area 11B in Sohar, is being developed by the Oman Mining Company, a subsidiary of Oman Minerals Development Company.
The processed ore yields high-quality copper concentrates with concentrations between 18% and 22%, with the mine's average annual production estimated at around 500,000 tonnes of copper ore. Operations at the Al-Bayda mine in Liwa are projected to begin in 2025-2026. This redevelopment plan for both mines targets estimated reserves of approximately 2.78 million tonnes of copper ore, with the first phase expected to last four to five years. Ongoing exploration and drilling aim to further expand these reserves.
Oman's re-entry into the global copper concentrate market positions it strategically in supplying a vital metal for clean energy technologies and future innovations like electric vehicles and batteries. With global copper demand expected to rise, this project represents a strategic investment for the nation. Oman Minerals Development Company's vision extends beyond the Al-Asail and Al-Bayda mines, with ongoing exploration and ambitious expansion plans, including the Mazoon Copper Project, the largest integrated copper concentrate production project in Oman. The company aims to lead the mining sector through innovation, sustainability, and support for national economic growth.
The export ceremony was held under the patronage of His Excellency Mohammed bin Suleiman Al Kindi, Governor of North Al Batinah, with the attendance of numerous dignitaries and representatives from government and private institutions.
