Egypt’s MRMIA & MovingFert Ink MoU to Unlock Phosphate Potential in Abu Tartour

Egypt’s Mineral Resources and Mining Industries Authority (MRMIA) signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with MovingFert Egypt. The MoU is to work on a collaborative study to evaluate an integrated project for the exploration and extraction of phosphate ore in the Abu Tartour region of the New Valley.

The signing took place in the presence of Karim Badawi, Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources. It comes in alignment with the Ministry of Petroleum and Mineral Resources (MoPMR)’s strategy to maximize mineral resource utilization and establish Egypt as a regional mining hub, noted a statement by MoPMR.

Funded by MovingFert Egypt, this project aims to maximize the economic value of phosphate ores through rigorous exploration, geological assessment, and reserve estimation. By identifying optimal beneficiation and quality-enhancement techniques, the initiative lays the foundation for advanced downstream industries in the Abu Tartour region, including the production of phosphoric acid, fertilizers, and derivatives, to ensure the highest possible local value addition.

Commenting on the MoU, Badawi noted that the state places great importance on maximizing the value-added potential of mineral raw materials by expanding associated manufacturing and complementary industries. This approach ensures the optimal utilization of natural resources and increases their economic return. He emphasized that phosphate ore is a fundamental pillar of this strategy, given Egypt’s significant reserves and competitive position.

The minister affirmed that the Abu Tartour phosphate project represents an integrated model of the state’s drive to maximize the economic benefit of mineral wealth. By transforming these resources into strategic industries, the project will generate value-added products and sustainable job opportunities, contributing to comprehensive economic development, particularly in Upper Egypt and border governorates.

MOVINGFERT is a producer, multinational trader, and marketer of different kinds of fertilizers and raw materials based in the Czech Republic and Egypt.