Amman: Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources Saleh Kharabsheh conducted an on-site review of phosphate ore exploration projects in southern Jordan, focusing on drilling operations and progress in the area.
According to Jordan News Agency, the minister inspected the exploration activities carried out by the ministry’s geology and mining technical teams, where core wells are being drilled over an area spanning more than 50 square kilometers. This initiative aims to evaluate the phosphate ore reserves within the region, aligning with Royal directives, the economic modernization vision, and the mining sector’s strategy.
During his visit, Kharabsheh emphasized the importance of enhancing the geological database and increasing explored reserves of strategic minerals like phosphate, base metals, and rare earth elements. This initiative is crucial for providing precise preliminary data for investors and opening new investment opportunities in the mining sector.
The minister highlighted the ministry’s policy to maximize the added value of mineral resources by reducing raw exports and fostering the expansion of related processing industries. This approach is intended to optimize economic revenue and boost the mining sector’s contribution to the country’s GDP.
These exploration projects are a strategic step towards expanding phosphate processing industries, such as phosphoric acid and fertilizer production. They also include materials used in pharmaceutical and medical industries, which will support the national economy and create future job opportunities, especially with the launch of industrial projects in mining areas.
During his tour, the minister was informed about the strategic significance of phosphate ore in Jordan as a crucial natural resource for the national economy. Initial phosphate exploration in the Kingdom started in the mid-20th century and has since expanded to various promising locations in central and eastern Jordan, currently under scientific evaluation.
Kharabsheh noted that regions like Karak and Tafileh, along with central and southern Jordan, are abundant in diverse mineral resources, including phosphate ore. The areas also feature important industrial minerals like limestone and dolomite, as well as raw materials for the construction industry. Additionally, commercial quantities of oil shale are present, which play a vital role in enhancing Jordan’s energy security and diversifying its energy sources.