Oman Marks Milestone with First Copper Concentrate Export in 30 Years
Muscat, The Gulf Observer: The Sultanate of Oman has celebrated a significant milestone in its economic diversification efforts with the successful export of its first shipment of copper concentrates in three decades. The shipment, consisting of 900 tonnes of copper concentrates, departed from the Al-Asail mine in Sohar, North Al Batinah Governorate, and was transported through Sohar Port. This achievement underscores Oman’s commitment to sustainable development and the growth of its mining sector.
Engineer Matar bin Salem Al-Badi, CEO of Oman Minerals Development Company, praised the export as a vital step for the company, emphasizing that it demonstrates their ability to turn challenges into opportunities for growth. Al-Badi also expressed optimism for the upcoming operations at the Al-Bayda mine, which is expected to further increase the project’s value and enhance the sustainability of Oman’s mining sector.
“This historic achievement is a testament to the region’s 3,000-year legacy in copper mining, dating back to the pioneering efforts of the Oman Mining Company since 1983,” said Al-Badi. “The advances in exploration and extraction technologies have allowed us to reopen mines, boosting the value of our resources and contributing positively to the economy and society.”
The Al-Asail mine, located in concession area 11B in Sohar, is a key project developed by the Oman Mining Company, a subsidiary of Oman Minerals Development Company. The mine yields high-quality copper concentrates with concentrations ranging from 18% to 22%. The estimated annual production is around 500,000 tonnes of copper ore. Operations at the Al-Bayda mine, located in Liwa, are expected to commence between 2025 and 2026. The redevelopment plans for both mines anticipate reserves of approximately 2.78 million tonnes of copper ore, with the first phase of operations expected to last between four to five years. Ongoing exploration is focused on further expanding these reserves.
Oman’s re-entry into the global copper concentrate market positions the country as a key supplier of copper, a vital metal used in clean energy technologies, electric vehicles, and batteries. With global demand for copper anticipated to rise, this project represents a significant strategic investment for the nation.
The Oman Minerals Development Company’s vision extends beyond the Al-Asail and Al-Bayda mines. The company is actively pursuing the Mazoon Copper Project, which is set to be Oman’s largest integrated copper concentrate production facility. The project, along with continued exploration and expansion plans, aligns with the company’s mission to lead the mining sector through innovation and sustainability, while contributing to Oman’s economic growth.
The export ceremony was held under the patronage of His Excellency Mohammed bin Suleiman Al Kindi, Governor of North Al Batinah, and attended by numerous dignitaries and representatives from government and private sectors.
