JSW Infrastructure, India’s second-largest private commercial port operator, has partnered with Minerals Development Oman (MDO) to develop a greenfield port with a capacity of 27 million tonnes per annum (mtpa) in the Dhofar Governorate. The project, involving an investment of $419 million (₹3,730 crore), is slated for completion within 36 months, with commercial operations targeted for the first half of 2029.
JSW Overseas FZE, a wholly owned step-down subsidiary of JSW Infrastructure, will acquire a 51 per cent stake in South Minerals Port Company SAOC — a special purpose vehicle (SPV) set up by MDO to execute the project. The remaining 49 per cent will be held by MDO. The port will play a crucial role in supporting Oman’s industrial minerals initiative and facilitating the efficient export of bulk commodities.
Gateway for Mineral Exports
The Dhofar region holds abundant reserves of limestone, gypsum, and dolomite — key raw materials for India’s steel and cement industries. The proposed port is expected to streamline exports from MDO’s mineral concessions, enhancing supply chain efficiency and strengthening connectivity between Oman and major global markets.
“The strategic investment will lay the foundation for deeper trade connectivity and economic cooperation,” said Sajjan Jindal, Chairman of the JSW Group. “Together, we aim to build world-class assets that strengthen our long-term partnership and set a new benchmark for regional growth.”
Rinkesh Roy, CEO & Joint Managing Director, JSW Infrastructure, said the collaboration underscores the company’s commitment to developing high-quality maritime infrastructure. Oman’s advantageous location along key shipping routes, combined with its logistics capabilities, makes it an ideal hub for mineral exports to South Asia, Southeast Asia, and East Africa, he added.
Strategic Priorities
The port project aligns with JSW Infrastructure’s long-term target of expanding cargo-handling capacity to 400 mtpa by 2030, up from the current 177 mtpa. It also supports Oman’s Vision 2040, which aims to diversify its economy by developing non-oil sectors and world-class infrastructure.
The upcoming port is expected to boost regional trade flows, provide long-term value to stakeholders, and reinforce strategic ties between India and Oman in the minerals and maritime sectors.
