SGS has embarked on a transformative journey in partnership with Golden Compass, a premier exploration and mining consultancy in Saudi Arabia, to establish a sophisticated geochemistry laboratory in Jeddah, targeted to commence operations by the end of 2024. This alliance is set to significantly advance the mining sector in the country by providing unmatched sample processing and geochemical testing services.
The kingdom’s dedication to reshaping its mining industry is integral to the aspirational Vision 2030 project. Saudi Arabia, with its vast, untapped geological wealth valued at over USD 2.5 trillion, is on the brink of becoming a major mining powerhouse. The discovery of more than 48 different types of minerals, encompassing base and precious metals, industrial metals, and even rare earth elements, shines a light on the enormous opportunities waiting to be harnessed.
With the launch of this high-tech laboratory, Saudi Arabia reinforces its commitment to the mining sector’s evolution, aiming to provide local miners and explorers with top-tier testing services. This joint venture brings together SGS’s analytical prowess and Golden Compass’s operational and consulting expertise in mining.
We are excited to build on SGS’s established presence in Saudi Arabia by adding geochemistry services, especially at a time when there is significant growth in the mining and minerals industry. Together with our joint venture partner, we look forward to helping exploration and mining companies identify, quantify, and realize the full potential of their mineral deposits.
The Jeddah laboratory, staffed by SGS professionals, will introduce a new benchmark for geochemical analysis in the region, offering a wide array of services:
- Sample Preparation: Including drying, crushing, pulverizing, and sieving processes.
- Fire Assays: Coupled with Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS) and gravimetric finish.
- Multi-Element Testing: Through advanced techniques like Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectroscopy (ICP-OES) and Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS).
- Carbon and Sulfur Analysis.
Adhering to the rigorous SGS quality assurance protocols, the laboratory will provide precise and trustworthy analyses that align with international standards.
Meshary AlAli AlDehashi, CEO of Golden Compass, highlighted the project’s significance:
This investment will contribute to achieving SGS – Golden Compass investment goals to support and enhance local content by localizing some mining services. This will help realize the goals of Saudi Vision 2030, which focuses on transforming the kingdom into a major mining hub.
The geochemistry team at SGS is ready to deliver tailored solutions, maintaining SGS’s reputation for methodological integrity and high-quality control. With over 500 labs worldwide and a specialized team, SGS is committed to helping clients optimize their mineral resources throughout the mining lifecycle.
SGS’s history in Saudi Arabia stretches back to 1980, with a strong presence today through seven offices across the nation. The firm’s ongoing commitment to Saudi Arabia’s industrial diversification is evident in this latest venture with Golden Compass, positioning SGS as a key player in the kingdom’s emergence as a global mining authority.
The upcoming Jeddah geochemistry lab symbolizes a milestone in achieving Vision 2030, marking Saudi Arabia’s ascent to the forefront of the mining industry as a bastion of scientific and industrial progress.
