Sohar Port signs pact with Al Tamman Indsil

Muscat: Sohar Port and Freezone recently signed an agreement with Al Tamman Indsil FerroChrome (ATIFC). The upcoming project will see the construction of additional ferrochrome furnaces that will increase production capacity. The agreement was signed between Dr Mohammed Nasser Ali Al Zaabi, Chairman of the Board at Sohar Port and Freezone, and CFO Anindya Das, representing ATIFC.
Highlighting the importance of the partnership, Al Zaabi said, “Together with the creation of the calcined coke petroleum plant, this agreement enhances the commitment of Sohar Port and Freezone towards encouraging new projects and expansions."
"This in turn not only boosts developments at the port and freezone, but also helps create new job opportunities and encourages the growth of local small and medium enterprises (SMEs), thus playing an integral part in the Sultanate’s economic diversification plans,” he added.
The Al Tamman Indsil expansion will see the creation of four submerged arc furnaces, which will have a capacity of 24 MVA for the production of ferrochrome, with an additional production capacity of approximately 37,500 tonnes per year. The total capacity of the plant, post expansion, is expected to be around 112,500 tonnes per year.
Vinod Narsiman, a partner in ATIFC, said, “The expansion will showcase state-of-the-art technology being utilised in the metal and alloy industry in Oman, in line with global best practices. Additionally, the project will see the creation of 100 job opportunities, as well as the development of other auxiliary services provided by local businesses.”
Jamal Aziz, CEO of Sohar Port and Freezone, said, “The port and freezone has always been supportive of creating opportunities for business and growth. Through this project, as well as the new calcined petroleum coke plant, we will be able to attract more investments to the port and freezone that can benefit from the excellent facilities and existing infrastructure."
"Alongside our wide network of shipping services, these upcoming projects will in turn reinforce our status as one of the leading logistics hubs in the region,” he added.
Al Tamman Indsil FerroChrome hosts Oman’s first ferrochrome smelter complex. Since its establishment, it has been recognised as one of the first companies to add value to mineral resources in the country. As a completely export-oriented business, ATIFC’s services comprise the supply of ferrochrome to various countries, including, USA, Europe, Japan and India.