The General Establishment of Geology and Mineral Resources signed a tripartite memorandum of understanding with Saudi company SAMIROCK exploring investment in oil shale for the production of phosphate fertilizers. The agreement, backed by Syria’s ministries of energy, economy and industry, aims to launch a project focused on producing di-ammonium phosphate, or DAP.
The signing took place at the Ministry of Energy headquarters in Damascus, attended by Assistant Energy Minister for Planning Ibrahim al-Adhan and Deputy Economy and Industry Minister Bassel Abdulhanan.
Khanaser Site Anchors Project Plans
The memorandum outlines plans to study oil shale reserves in the Khanaser area of Aleppo province for use in the phosphate fertilizer industry. Officials say the project could support domestic production capacity and contribute to food security.
Under the agreement, Syrian authorities and SAMIROCK will establish a joint framework assessing the project’s feasibility. This includes geological, technical and economic studies to evaluate the potential of oil shale and phosphate rock resources for DAP production.
Government entities will provide available licenses, data and prior studies, while the Saudi company will lead technical assessments and prepare a comprehensive feasibility study. The process is expected to lead to negotiations on a final implementation agreement.
The memorandum also sets guidelines for identifying viable reserves and developing a financial model and action plan. It includes provisions on confidentiality, intellectual property protection and the rights of all parties involved.
Officials Cite Economic and Agricultural Benefits
Assistant Economy and Industry Minister Muhammad Huraira described the agreement as a strategic step, citing the potential economic returns from oil shale investment. He said the project could help revive the Khanaser area, which has sustained significant damage in recent years.
SAMIROCK Vice Chairman Ibrahim Babli said the initiative aims to build a phosphate fertilizer industry based on local oil shale resources. He added that deposits in Khanaser rank among the most promising in the region in terms of quality and volume. Babli noted phosphate fertilizers remain widely used in agriculture and continue to see strong global demand, making the project commercially viable if feasibility studies prove favorable.
Mining Expertise Supports Sector Development
SAMIROCK specializes in mining, geological surveying and exploration, as well as drilling operations and equipment supply. The company has experience in executing mining and semi-mining projects using modern technologies and international standards.
Syria’s phosphate sector is a key component of its mineral resources. The agreement aligns with government efforts to rehabilitate the sector by investing in local raw materials and expanding related manufacturing industries. Officials say such projects could add value to the economy while supporting agricultural production through increased fertilizer supply.
