Australia-based mineral exploration and mining company Alara Resources has begun producing copper concentrate at its Al Wash-hi – Majaza copper-gold mine in Oman.

The mine, with a capacity of one million tonnes per annum, is operated by Al Hadeetha Resources (AHRL), a 51% joint venture (JV) company of Alara.

Alara noted that the facility is expected to reach its full potential over the next two to three months.

It also noted that the first shipment of around 1,000 dry tonnes of copper concentrate is scheduled for delivery to Trafigura in April 2024.

Prior to the commencement of copper ore processing, Alara conducted comprehensive testing of all major equipment, including a trial run with basaltic rock.

These tests confirmed that all systems were operational, with a technical issue in the tailings filter press being the only exception, which is currently being addressed and does not affect the planned production levels.

Alara's operations in Oman extend beyond the Al Wash-hi – Majaza mine, according to the company’s press release.

The company is actively pursuing exploration activities at its Block 7 exploration licence under the Daris JV and at the Mullaq and Al Ajal exploration licences under the Al Hadeetha JV.

Through these initiatives, Alara is working towards its goal of becoming a mid-tier minerals producer.

Alara managing director Atmavireshwar Sthapak said: “The commencement of concentrate production is a momentous occasion for Alara and its shareholders.

“This represents the culmination of 12 years’ hard work, from project site identification through resource definition, detailed engineering studies, debt and equity financing and the construction phase just completed.

“This great achievement would not have been possible without the enormous efforts of Alara’s joint venture partners in AHRL – Omani conglomerates Al Naba Services and Al Tasnim Enterprises, for which we are extremely grateful.”