Muscat: The Sultanate of Oman has achieved a notable milestone with the export of its inaugural shipment of copper concentrates in three decades. This shipment, consisting of 900 tonnes, departed from the Al-Asail mine located in Sohar, within the North Al Batinah Governorate, and was sent via Sohar Port. This accomplishment highlights Oman's dedication to economic diversification and sustainable development.
Engineer Matar bin Salem Al-Badi, CEO of Oman Minerals Development Company, praised this export as a pivotal advancement, showcasing the company's capability to turn challenges into opportunities for growth. He also expressed enthusiasm for the imminent start of operations at the Al-Bayda mine, which is anticipated to further increase the project's value and strengthen the sustainability of Oman's mining industry.
Al-Badi underscored the historical importance of this event, referencing the region's 3,000-year legacy of copper mining, including the foundational efforts of the Oman Mining Company since 1983. He pointed out the technological advancements in exploration and extraction that have facilitated the reopening of mines, thereby enhancing the value of these resources and contributing positively to the economic and social landscape of the sector. The Al-Asail mine, situated in concession area 11B in Sohar, is being developed by the Oman Mining Company, a subsidiary of Oman Minerals Development Company.
The processed ore produces high-quality copper concentrates with concentrations ranging from 18% to 22%, and the mine's average annual output is projected to be around 500,000 tonnes of copper ore. Operations at the Al-Bayda mine in Liwa are expected to commence in 2025-2026. The redevelopment strategy for both mines aims to tap into estimated reserves of approximately 2.78 million tonnes of copper ore, with the initial phase projected to last four to five years. Continuous exploration and drilling efforts are underway to further increase these reserves.
Oman's re-entry into the global copper concentrate market strategically positions the country as a key supplier of an essential metal for clean energy technologies and future advancements, such as electric vehicles and batteries. With an anticipated increase in global copper demand, this initiative signifies a significant investment for Oman. The vision of Oman Minerals Development Company extends beyond the Al-Asail and Al-Bayda mines, encompassing ongoing exploration and ambitious expansion efforts, including the Mazoon Copper Project, which is the largest integrated copper concentrate production initiative in Oman. The company is committed to leading the mining industry through innovation, sustainability, and contributions to national economic development.
The export ceremony took place under the patronage of His Excellency Mohammed bin Suleiman Al Kindi, Governor of North Al Batinah, and was attended by various dignitaries and representatives from both government and private sectors.
