Oman Strengthens Regulation of Chromium Mining to Boost Local Value and Sustainable Development
Muscat, The Gulf Observer: The Ministry of Energy and Minerals is intensifying efforts to regulate the exploitation of chromium ore through the allocation of mining concession areas and licenses based on clear technical and geological standards, aiming to ensure efficient resource utilization and long-term sustainability.
The initiative aligns with the objectives of Oman Vision 2040, which seeks to maximize local added value and promote sustainable economic development, while encouraging investment across the chromium value chain.
Engineer Saud bin Khamis Al Mahrouqi, Director General of Minerals at the Ministry of Energy and Minerals, affirmed that ongoing efforts are focused on developing chromium ore production in accordance with global best practices in the mining sector. He emphasized enhancing exploration and development activities to unlock the mineral’s full potential.
In remarks to the Oman News Agency, Al Mahrouqi said the current strategy prioritizes maximizing local added value by improving product quality and expanding related manufacturing industries. He noted that chromium ore exports will be organized through the Metals Trading Company, a move expected to enhance sustainability, strengthen marketing mechanisms, and position Oman as a promising regional hub for chromium trade in the long term.
He explained that chromium production in Oman follows operational plans that balance natural resource sustainability with global market demand. In 2025, total chromium ore production reached approximately 353,538 tonnes, while sales amounted to about 387,995 tonnes, generating revenues exceeding OMR 15 million.
Most of the output is exported through Omani ports to international markets, particularly in Asia and Europe. Efforts are underway to further improve raw material quality and streamline export processes to achieve higher economic returns and strengthen the competitiveness of Oman’s mining sector at both regional and international levels.
Al Mahrouqi highlighted Oman’s significant geological potential for chromium, noting that the mineral is found within the ophiolite belt formations—considered the largest and most important of their kind globally. These formations, rich in ultrabasic rocks, were formed through ancient tectonic processes and contain substantial chromium deposits.
Extensive geological studies and decades of exploration have identified numerous chromium-rich sites across the country, particularly within ultrabasic rock formations. Mineral deposits extend from the Wilayat of Shinas to Wadi Bani Khalid, including Al Buraimi, Sohar, Al Rustaq, and Samail, among others.
Currently, 29 chromium quarries operate in Oman under established regulatory and legislative frameworks. Growing interest in exploration along the Hajar Mountains is expected to further expand mining activity and ensure the sustainability of chromium resources.
Chromium plays a vital role in Oman’s industrial and economic landscape due to its extensive applications in heavy and advanced manufacturing industries. It is a key raw material in stainless steel and metal alloy production, as well as in chemical industries producing pigments, paints, ceramics, plastics, and furnace linings for high-temperature applications.
The availability of domestic chromium resources reduces reliance on imports, enhances industrial supply chains, and supports the expansion of downstream manufacturing activities, including the production of ferrochrome in smelting plants rather than exporting raw ore.
Omani companies, including Oman Chrome Company established in 1991, continue to play a central role in exploration, extraction, transportation, and quality enhancement operations.
