SOHAR Port and Freezone have recently signed a land lease agreement with Green Ferro Alloy (FZC) LLC to establish Oman’s first silicon metal plant in the prestigious SOHAR Freezone. With a substantial total investment of US$68 million, this groundbreaking project further solidifies SOHAR’s position as a global trade hub and marks a significant milestone in the region’s economic growth and diversification efforts. The plant aims to cater to the increasing demand for silicon metal in key markets across Asia, Europe, and North America.
Spanning an expansive land area of 160,000 square meters, the state-of-the-art silicon metal plant will be meticulously designed and constructed to produce high-quality silicon metal. In its initial phase, the plant will have a production capacity of 25,000 metric tons per annum (TPA), with ambitious plans to expand to 50,000 TPA in the subsequent phase.
The production process at the silicon metal plant involves the careful pouring of molten silicon metal from furnaces into ladles and moulds, followed by expert cooling through moulds or continuous casting. The cooled silicon metal is then meticulously crushed and packaged in large bags, primed for global export. This innovative process ensures the delivery of premium-quality silicon metal to valued customers worldwide.
The Director of Green Ferro Alloy expressed enthusiasm about the partnership with SOHAR Freezone, acknowledging the promising opportunities it presents to investors. Leveraging the strategic advantages offered by SOHAR Freezone and its proximity to vital markets, the establishment of Oman’s first silicon metal factory is set to bolster the mining sector in the region.
In response to this significant achievement, Omar al Mahrizi, the CEO of SOHAR Freezone and DCEO of SOHAR Port, emphasized the pivotal role of the agreement in reinforcing the region’s global trade position and commitment to economic resilience. He also highlighted the importance of the silicon metal plant as a testament to their dedication to diversifying industries and attracting foreign direct investment. The establishment of this cutting-edge facility is expected to stimulate business growth, create new opportunities, and contribute to a brighter and more sustainable future for SOHAR and beyond.