SMES and entrepreneurs to benefit from mining sector

Rocks of Oman have always been attracting geologists, but now they might be holding opportunities for entrepreneurs, says Dr Ali bin Salem al Rajhi, Director-general of Research and Geological Survey, Public Authority for Mining.

Mining is considered one of the main sources of diversification of Oman’s economy standing second to oil and gas industry.

Oman has the whole sequence of the ophiolite from A to Z, which is not available in other countries because in the Sultanate it is possible to see them with one to six km in thickness.

“The future of minerals is promising and I encourage geologists and mining engineers to do their own business in this field,” said Dr Ali.

According to statistics (2015) from the Public Authority of Mining, 75 per cent of production of minerals is for building materials, 14 per cent limestone, 6 per cent gypsum, 2 per cent marble and 2 per cent other minerals. The focus is also on producing finished products.

“As of now, gypsum has become the most prominent mineral for export after building materials,” said Dr Ali.

One must have qualification and the experience, said an industry expert who is also a member of the Economic Diversification Pillar of National Innovation Strategy supervised by The Research Council.

“They can have their own small mines for different minerals and run it themselves. This is a good chance for them while it also provides job opportunities. Each quarry or mine will create jobs for quite a few graduates, including geologists and engineers. This is an excellent opportunity,” he added.