Wednesday September 21st, 2005

Sohar Aluminium information forum 21st September 2005 Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OCCI) Sohar

Under the patronage of the Wali of Sohar, HE Mohammed Bin Ahmed Al-Busaidy, Sohar Aluminium Company in coordination with the Oman Chamber of Commerce & Industry (OCCI) organized an information forum on the 21st of September at the premises of the OCCI in Sohar.

The forum targeted the business community, government officials, and community leaders in the Batinah Region.

This is the second information forum organized by Sohar Aluminium to the business community in Oman. The first forum was held in Muscat in May 2005 in Muscat.

Sohar Aluminium presented an overview of the project and the various phases that the project will go through until first metal production in 2008.

The EPCM Contractor Bechtel presented an overview of their role in construction and discussed the various opportunities that will be available for employment and companies in the region.

The focus on Sohar & the Batinah region in terms of opportunities was emphasized by the Management of Sohar as part of their commitment in building a world class aluminium smelter in Sohar. Sohar Aluminium was formed in September 2004 to undertake a land mark US$2 billion green field aluminium smelter. The Company will build a single AP35 potline, together with associated carbon and casting facilities and an 800 MW gas fired power station.

The Company emphasized that Environment, Health & Safety is a key value and commitment of Sohar Aluminium during construction and operation.

Sohar Aluminium is expected to create 1000 immediate jobs in both the Smelter and the Power Station.

During the construction phases, between 1,500-2,000 temporary jobs will be created.