The General Company for Cement Industry and Building Materials (Omaran) has signed an investment contract with the Emirati company QZ to rehabilitate and operate the mills at the Tartous Cement Plant. The move is part of broader government efforts to boost local production and strengthen reliance on national resources.
Strategic Importance of the Agreement
Muhammad Fadila, General Manager of Omaran, said the contract will reactivate a critical stage in the cement production process, grinding, thereby improving overall plant efficiency without placing a heavy financial burden on the state. He added that the partnership introduces modern expertise and technology through private sector involvement.
Fadila noted the agreement balances maintaining state ownership with enhancing operational performance. He explained that QZ was selected based on strict criteria, including technical expertise, experience in cement operations, financial capacity, and the competitiveness of its proposal.
Creating Jobs and Supporting the Economy
According to Fadila, the project reflects Omaran’s strategy to maximize the use of idle assets by rehabilitating and reintegrating them into production. This approach supports faster recovery in the cement sector while introducing modern technologies.
The project also includes training and employing local workers using up-to-date techniques and occupational safety standards, alongside reinforcing environmental compliance. The 15-year contract will rely on importing clinker and grinding it locally in line with Syrian specifications, boosting domestic output and enhancing the competitiveness of local cement against imports. This is expected to support price stability and improve market availability.
The project is expected to generate around 300 direct jobs, in addition to over 2,000 indirect employment opportunities, contributing to labor market recovery and local economic activity. Fadila added QZ brings experience in industrial and construction investments and works with international partners in the cement sector. The company will depend primarily on local personnel to operate the plant in accordance with modern technical and administrative standards.
Strengthening Industrial Infrastructure
Fadila emphasized opening cement plants to investment aims to strengthen industrial infrastructure, improve efficiency, and develop human capital. These efforts aim to stabilize the local market, create jobs, and stimulate economic growth while maintaining public ownership.
He also stressed the importance of balancing economic goals with environmental considerations, particularly in areas previously affected by industrial pollution. Omaran had earlier announced similar agreements with regional companies to rehabilitate its facilities and train staff across technical fields, enabling them to adapt to modern technologies in the cement industry.
