Muscat: Vale’s operations in Oman has received its 50th Valemax vessel at the Port of Sohar, recording a total shipment of 25m metric tonnes of iron ore since commencing operations in Oman in 2011.
“There is a popular belief that a large port can sustain a city. Today we can assume that this is happening here in North Al Batinah. At Vale, we are proud to see how only the operations related to our vessels are economically contributing to the region. For every Valemax that calls at the Port, approximately $3.3m is invested in unloading the shipment and preparing the vessel for departure,” said Sergio Espeschit, Vale’s ceo in Oman.
He added, “The Port of Sohar’s strategic location outside of the Strait of Hormuz with the advantage of deep-water seas has put Oman on the world map of the steel industry while solidifying its frontier market status and competitiveness in the global economy. Being one of ten ports around the world equipped to receive Valemax’s impressive capacity, the port has achieved global maritime prominence and allowed us to establish a worldwide production and logistics system that enhances our capability to generate customised solutions for clients.”
A fully laden 400,000 dwt Valemax vessel carries as much iron ore as 11,150 trucks, enough to produce steel for three of San Francisco’s famed Golden Gate Bridges. In a Valemax’s typical 30 year lifespan it is expected to transport 48m metric tons of iron ore, enough to produce 4,383 Eiffel Towers. [12/05/14]
