Oman resumes copper exports after a 30-year hiatus
In a historic achievement for the mining sector in the Sultanate, the Oman Minerals Development Company announced the export of the first shipment of copper concentrates from the Lassil mine in the state of Sohar.
This huge step not only revives copper mining in Oman after nearly 30 years, but also underscores the Sultanate’s firm commitment to economic diversification and sustainability.
The Lasail mine is located in Area 11B in Sohar, and is being developed by Oman Mining Company, a subsidiary of Petroleum Development Oman. The mine produces high-quality copper concentrates with purity levels ranging from 18 to 22%, making Oman a reliable player in global markets. The average annual production of the mine is 500,000 tons of copper ore, which reflects its strong capacity and importance.
Looking to the future, PDO plans to commence operations at Al Bayda mine in Liwa by 2025-26. Together, these mines have a combined reserve of approximately 2.78 million tons of copper ore. The first phase of the redevelopment project is expected to extend from 4 to 5 years, with ongoing exploration efforts in the surrounding areas aimed at increasing reserves and ensuring long-term production sustainability.
This achievement enhances the Sultanate’s reputation on the global stage as a reliable source of copper concentrates, an essential metal in the transition to clean energy and future technologies, including electric cars and advanced battery systems. With global demand for copper expected to rise, the Lasail project represents a strategic investment in the economic future of the Sultanate of Oman.
On this occasion, M. said: Matar bin Salem Al Badi, CEO of PDO, said:
“We are pleased to contribute to the rich history of mining in the Sultanate of Oman, which has been a center for copper mining for more than 3,000 years. Thanks to the legacy that the Oman Mining Company has been pioneering since 1983, today we celebrate the continuation of this legacy by exporting the first shipment of copper concentrate from a mine Al-Aseel. The sector has made significant strides in exploration and extraction, enabling us to reopen idle mines and maximize their value. These developments do not enhance the sustainability of the sector Not only does it work to amplify its economic and social contributions.
“The export of the first shipment from the Aseel mine is a testament to our ability to turn challenges into tangible opportunities for growth. We are equally excited about the upcoming operations at the Al Bayda mine, which will enhance the value of this project and support the sustainability of the mining sector in the Sultanate of Oman.
PDO’s vision extends beyond the redevelopment of the Aseel and Al Bayda mines, as the company is conducting exploratory studies in nearby areas to enhance copper reserves. Furthermore, its ambitious plans include the Mazoon Copper Project, the largest integrated copper concentrate production initiative in the Sultanate of Oman.
With this historic achievement, MDO confirms its position as a leader in the mining industry, champions innovation, supports sustainable practices, and contributes to national economic growth.
Read the article online at: https://www.globalminingreview.com/mining/02012025/oman-resumes-copper-exports-after-a-30-year-hiatus/
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