Foundation stone laid for $68 million worth silicon metal factory in Sohar Free Zone

Muscat: At a total cost estimated at $68 million, the foundation stone for the first Silicon metal factory has been laid in Sohar Free Zone.

The Sohar Free Zone celebrated the laying of the foundation stone for the first silicon metal factory in the Sohar Free Zone, affiliated with the Green Ferro Alloys Company, at a total cost estimated at $68 million, which strengthens the position of Sohar Port and the Free Zone as a global hub for trade and meets the growing demand for metallic silicon in the markets of Asia, Europe and North America.

 The ceremony was held under the patronage of His Excellency Sheikh Mohammed bin Sulaiman Al Kindi, Governor of North Al Batinah, and in the presence of many partners, in addition to the executive management of the Sohar Port and Free Zone Company and the Green Ferroalloys Company (Free Zone Company).

 The Silicon metal factory, which will occupy a land area of ​​160,000 square meters, will be established to produce high-quality metallic silicon, with a capacity of 25,000 tonnes per year during the first phase, and production will increase in the second phase to reach 50,000 tons per year. The production process will be carried out by pouring liquid metal silicon from a furnace into molds, and then cooling it through molds or continuous casting. After cooling, the silicon metal is ground and packed for global export.

 His Excellency Sheikh Mohammed bin Sulaiman Al Kindi, Governor of North Al Batinah, stressed the importance of the industrial sector as a key driver for achieving comprehensive development in the Sultanate of Oman. Pointing out that the establishment of the Silicon metal factory represents an important strategic achievement in the economic development path of the Sultanate of Oman. It contributes to enhancing trade and investment opportunities, and opens new doors for international cooperation in the fields of modern industries.

  Omar bin Mahmoud Al Mahrezi, CEO of Sohar Free Zone and Executive Vice President of the Port, said: “Laying the foundation stone for a silicon metal factory in the free zone represents an important step in achieving our vision for sustainable growth and development, and reflects the region’s full commitment to supporting all stages of the project efficiently and effectively, starting from the signing stage through obtaining all required permits, all the way to this stage.”