Oman resumes copper exports
Minerals Development Oman (MDO) celebrated the export of the first shipment of copper concentrates from Al Aseel Mine in the Wilayat of Sohar, North Al Batinah Governorate, via Sohar Port.
This marks the resumption of copper exports from the Sultanate after nearly 30 years, reflecting Oman's commitment to diversifying its economy and enhancing its sustainability.
Mattar bin Salim Al Badi, CEO of MDO, stated that exporting the first shipment of 900 tonnes from Al Aseel Mine is a significant step that demonstrates the company's ability to transform challenges into tangible growth opportunities.
He also expressed optimism about starting operations at Al Biyada Mine soon, which will add greater value to the project and further strengthen the sustainability of Oman's mining sector.
“We are proud to be part of the mining history in this significant region, which has had a historical and archaeological presence in copper mining for more than three thousand years,” he said.
“This area was distinguished for copper mining through the Oman Mining Company, a pioneer in copper mining since 1983. Today, we celebrate the export of copper concentrates from Al Aseel Mine, continuing this rich legacy,” he added.
He noted that the mining sector has witnessed remarkable progress in exploration and extraction, enabling the reopening of mines. This has contributed to the sector's sustainability and an increase in its economic and social impact, he said.
Al Aseel Mine, located in concession area 11B in Sohar, is being developed by the Oman Mining Company, a subsidiary of MDO.
The mine processes ore to produce high quality copper with concentrations ranging from 18% to 22%. The mine's average annual production is approximately 500,000 tonnes of copper ore.
The company plans to commence operations at Al Biyada Mine in the Wilayat of Liwa between 2025 and 2026 as part of a comprehensive plan to redevelop the two mines.
Reserves are estimated at around 2.8 million tonnes of copper ore, with the first phase of the project expected to last 4 to 5 years. The company is exploring in surrounding areas to locate further reserves and ensure production continuity. It has ambitious plans for expansion through the Mazoon Copper Project, the largest integrated project for producing copper concentrates in Oman.
Oman is establishing its presence in the global copper concentrate market, a metal crucial for the transition to clean energy and future technologies such as electric vehicles and batteries. Global demand for copper is expected to rise, making this project a strategic investment.
The ceremony was held under the patronage of Muhammad bin Suleiman Al Kindi, Governor of North Al Batinah, in the presence of local officials and directors from public and private institutions.