Oman has made a major announcement for its mining sector with the first export of copper concentrates in three decades. The shipment, weighing approximately 900 tonnes, originated from the Lasail mine in Sohar, developed by Minerals Development Oman (MDO). This achievement signals the revival of copper mining and exports in the sultanate after a long hiatus, reflecting the government’s broader efforts to diversify the economy.

The processed ore from the Lasail mine, known for its high-quality output, boasts purity levels between 18% and 22%. MDO estimates an annual production of around 500,000 tonnes of copper ore from this facility. The shipment marks a step forward in reestablishing Oman as a significant player in the global copper industry.

Matar bin Salem Al-Badi, CEO of MDO, highlighted the historical significance of this milestone. He noted that Oman’s relationship with copper mining stretches back 3,000 years, making it an integral part of the country’s heritage. The Oman Mining Company initially launched operations in 1983, but the sector saw a prolonged pause until now.

“The export of the first shipment from the Lasail mine is a testament to our ability to transform challenges into tangible opportunities for growth,” Al-Badi said in a press release. He emphasized that this achievement not only revives an important industry but also aligns with Oman’s vision for sustainable development.

The Lasail mine forms just one part of MDO’s broader strategy. The company plans to begin operations at the Al-Baydha mine in Liwa between 2025 and 2026. Together, the Lasail and Al-Baydha mines hold a combined reserve of 2.78 million tonnes of copper ore. The first phase of redevelopment for these projects is expected to take four to five years.

Beyond these two sites, MDO is conducting exploratory studies in nearby regions to boost the nation’s copper reserves. The company’s plans include the Mazoon project, which it describes as Oman’s largest integrated copper concentrate production initiative.

This recent development reflects Oman’s push to diversify its economy by capitalizing on its natural resources. It also underscores the growing importance of copper as a critical material for industries such as electronics, renewable energy, and construction. By reviving its copper mining and export sector, Oman is positioning itself to meet the increasing global demand for this valuable resource.

This milestone strengthens Oman’s mining capabilities and reinforces its commitment to economic sustainability and growth, ensuring that the country’s rich mining history continues to contribute to its future as it resumes exports. 

The above references an opinion and is for information purposes only. It is not intended to be investment advice. Seek a licensed professional for investment advice. The author is not an insider or shareholder of any of the companies mentioned above.