Deep Exploration Key to Securing Sustainable Raw Material Supply for Industry

Fatemi Oqda, who also serves as Deputy Minister of Industry, Mine and Trade, stressed the importance of greater private sector involvement in mineral exploration, stating that private companies are naturally motivated to identify and access new mineral resources.

He added that effective use of the private sector’s capabilities is only possible if the government first identifies, defines, and manages the country’s mineral resource boundaries and capacities.

The head of the Geological Survey and Mineral Exploration of Iran continued by saying that once these capacities have been identified and managed, the necessary conditions should be created to enable private sector participation, allowing companies to play an active role in mineral exploration and mine development.

He noted that the private sector’s focus on mining and mineral resources contributes to the discovery of new deposits, adding that the successful development of the mining industry requires deep exploration to occupy a central position in the country’s mining strategy.

The Deputy Minister of Industry, Mine and Trade also said that while the private sector has consistently played a role in discovering mineral deposits, the process remains challenging, and the country must focus on identifying sufficient reserves to support its industries.

He concluded that the government should supervise and manage private sector activities to ensure the country’s mineral resources are utilized efficiently. At the same time, he emphasized that the technical expertise and specialized capabilities of private companies can play a highly effective role in identifying and developing the nation’s mineral potential.