Total value of Qassim’s resources is estimated at SR122.3 billion Region hosts 35 mineralized belts, including gold, copper, lead, nickel, and zinc RIYADH: Qassim region’s SR122 billion ($32.5 billion) in untapped mineral wealth means it will become a key contributor to Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 plan, according to a Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources spokesman. Jarrah bin Mohammed Al-Jarrah posted on X that Qassim holds high-quality mineral ores, including lead, tin, granite, and tungsten. The strategic focus on economic diversification has placed the mining sector at the forefront of national development plans, with the Kingdom’s mineral wealth valued at an estimated SR9.4 trillion. The total value of Qassim’s resources is estimated at SR122.3 billion, with gold accounting for SR87.7 billion, bauxite at SR24.6 billion, zinc at SR4.7 billion, copper at SR4 billion, and silver at SR1.4 billion. Al-Jarrah highlighted that the region, which is located in the center of Saudi Arabia approximately 400 km northwest of Riyadh, hosts 35 mineralized belts, including 16 for gold, 15 for copper and lead, three for nickel, and one for zinc. Qassim also has eight phosphate reserve sites and a mining complex for bauxite ore, as well as 32 mining complexes, designated for construction materials, including 17 for gravel, nine for sand, and six for fill materials. The spokesman highlighted that Qassim’s industrial sector is robust and diverse, housing 580 factories. Around 84 percent of these facilities are located in the region’s main cities including Buraidah, Unaizah, Al-Rass, and Al-Badayea. Key industries include food and beverage production, basic goods, pharmaceuticals, and rubber and plastic manufacturing. The region’s industrial workforce totals 35,000 employees, with females making up over 15 percent, reflecting ongoing efforts to empower women in the sector. The Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources, Bandar Alkhorayef, is visiting Qassim on Oct. 9 to inaugurate several projects in industrial cities under the Saudi Authority for Industrial Cities and Technology Zones, also known as MODON. He will also attend the launch of the Youth of Industry forum, aimed at developing national skills in the industrial sector through specialized workshops and career counseling. The visit will include the launch of initiatives to enhance human capabilities in the industrial and mining sectors, alongside meetings with investors during factory visits. Saudi Arabia is rich in minerals essential for various global industries, transforming the Kingdom into a leading exporter of diverse energy types, shifting away from its traditional role as an oil producer. It has strong potential to produce minerals essential for energy transition, such as aluminum, copper, rare earth elements, and resources needed for global agriculture.