Oman’s aluminium scrap recycling volumes surge 288% as circular economy framework strengthens

OMAN – Oman’s aluminium scrap recycling volumes rose 288 percent by the end of 2025 compared to 2024, marking a sharp increase in recovery rates as the sultanate strengthens its circular economy framework under Oman Vision 2040, supported by aluminium-related regulations introduced in March 2025.

The milestone was highlighted at the third edition of the Aluminium Recycling Forum, organised by Sohar Aluminium in collaboration with the Environment Authority under the patronage of Dr Abdullah Ali Al Amri, Chairman of the Environment Authority. 

Industry leaders and policymakers said the growth reflects coordinated efforts between regulators and producers.

A Structured Approach to Scrap Management

Since 2024, a series of workshops led by Sohar Aluminium with government and industry stakeholders has aimed to streamline scrap management and improve compliance. 

The forum examined global, regional, and domestic trends in aluminium scrap recycling, with discussions focusing on retaining scrap within local markets, improving quality standards, and strengthening technical capabilities. 

Participants reviewed the economic outlook for the recycling industry and opportunities to expand investment across the value chain.

Said Mohammed Al Masoudi, CEO of Sohar Aluminium, stated that recycling has become central to both environmental targets and industrial growth. 

He noted that the progress achieved over the past years demonstrates what is possible through strong collaboration and clear regulatory direction. 

He added that aligning policy, investment, and technology would help build a resilient recycling network capable of supporting sustainable growth and enhancing in-country value.

Positioning Oman as a Regional Recycling Hub

Panel discussions explored measures to develop a cohesive recycling value chain in Oman, including coordination between government entities, industrial operators, and supporting institutions. 

Delegates said scaling recycling capacity and improving scrap retention could position Oman as a regional centre for circular economy practices in high-value materials such as aluminium.

Why Aluminium Recycling Matters

Recycling aluminium consumes up to 95 percent less energy than primary production from bauxite ore, reducing associated carbon emissions proportionally. 

For Oman, which hosts Sohar Aluminium, one of the world’s largest single-site smelters, capturing and recycling domestic aluminium scrap keeps value within the country rather than exporting it for processing elsewhere. 

The 288 percent increase in recycling volumes suggests that more scrap is being collected, sorted, and processed locally rather than shipped to international recyclers.

When Scrap Stays Home

A 288 percent jump in recycling volumes is not incremental growth, it is a transformation. Oman has moved from exporting its aluminium scrap to processing it at home. 

For the sultanate’s Vision 2040 targets, that shift turns waste from a lost resource into a retained asset.

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