MUSCAT: Oman is developing a roadmap to connect its mineral resources with fertiliser and chemical manufacturing, seeking to convert more locally produced raw materials into higher-value industrial products.
The Ministry of Energy and Minerals reviewed the proposed roadmap during a workshop titled “Roadmap for Integration between Minerals, Fertilisers and Chemicals in the Sultanate of Oman”, held under the auspices of Mohsin bin Hamad al Hadhrami, Under-Secretary of the Ministry of Energy and Minerals.
The plan covers existing and proposed projects, investment opportunities, participating organisations and implementation schedules for priority developments.
It is based on a study prepared for the ministry by Falaj Point that examines how mineral resources and concession areas could support downstream manufacturing.
The proposed framework would connect natural resources with production facilities, infrastructure, logistics networks and markets, helping Oman reduce its reliance on exporting minerals in their raw form.
It identifies gypsum, limestone, dolomite, laterite, kaolin and potash as resources that could be used to develop fertilisers and related chemical products. These would complement Oman’s existing production capabilities in urea, ammonia and sulphur.
The roadmap also proposes the development of industrial clusters in Suhar, Al Duqm, Salalah and Ibri, based on the resources, infrastructure and industrial potential available in each location.
Such clusters could integrate raw-material supplies, processing operations, logistics and access to domestic and export markets.
Workshop participants reviewed the current state of the minerals sector, the availability of feedstock for fertiliser production and the role of sulphur and associated chemicals. They also discussed proposed projects, investment opportunities and the steps needed to move priority developments towards implementation.
The initiative is expected to support industrial localisation, attract investment, strengthen In-Country Value and expand Oman’s manufacturing base.
It also forms part of efforts to maximise the economic value of the Sultanate of Oman’s natural resources and diversify national income under Oman Vision 2040.
The workshop brought together chief executives from the minerals and fertiliser industries, government representatives, investors and other stakeholders. — ONA
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