Saudi Maaden Doubles Profits in Second Quarter of 2024

The Maaden Aluminum Station in Ras Al-Khair, Saudi Arabia. (Reuters)
The Maaden Aluminum Station in Ras Al-Khair, Saudi Arabia. (Reuters)
TT

Saudi Maaden Doubles Profits in Second Quarter of 2024

The Maaden Aluminum Station in Ras Al-Khair, Saudi Arabia. (Reuters)
The Maaden Aluminum Station in Ras Al-Khair, Saudi Arabia. (Reuters)

The net profits of the Saudi Arabian Mining Company (Maaden) doubled by approximately 192 percent to one billion riyals ($266 million) during the second quarter of 2024, compared to SAR 350.9 million ($93 million) during the same period last year.

In a statement on Tadawul, the company attributed the growth to the increase in total profit by 35 percent to SAR 572 million as a result of the rise in selling prices, the decrease in the cost of raw materials, and depreciation expenses.

In addition, an insurance claim of SAR 270 million and a one-off severance charge of SAR 192 million contributed to the higher profit, the company stated.

This increase in net profit was partially offset by a decrease in sales volume for all products, except for basic aluminum, flat rolled products and gold.

Sales increased by 3 percent to SAR 7.1 billion, compared to SAR 6.9 billion in the same period of 2023.

“We delivered a strong first half of 2024, demonstrating our ability to realize the benefits of operational efficiencies in a stable environment,” Maaden CEO Bob Wilt said.

He continued: “Our large-scale Phosphate 3 project is progressing, with construction underway, and we are moving forward with a new aluminum recycling plant at Ras Al-Khair.”

“Additionally, the successful completion of our investment in Vale Base Metals through Manara, is set to increase our exposure to green metals,” Wilt underlined, adding: “Our strategic partnerships and technology-led innovation programs are fast-tracking mineral discoveries through the world’s largest greenfield exploration program of its kind.”



Mawani Announces New Shipping Service to Boost Saudi Arabia's Connection to China, India 

Mawani Announces New Shipping Service to Boost Saudi Arabia's Connection to China, India 
TT

Mawani Announces New Shipping Service to Boost Saudi Arabia's Connection to China, India 

Mawani Announces New Shipping Service to Boost Saudi Arabia's Connection to China, India 

The Saudi Ports Authority (Mawani) announced on Sunday the addition of the "Milaha Gulf Express 2" (MGX-2), affiliated with the Qatari Navigation Company (Milaha), as a new shipping service to the King Abdulaziz Port in Dammam (KAPD).

This service connects Saudi Arabia to the ports of China and India. The move aligns with the objectives of the National Strategy for Transport and Logistics Services, aiming to consolidate KAPD's position as a global logistics hub linking three continents.

The plan is designed to boost the port's position and increase its competitiveness for exporters, importers, and shipping agents.

The addition of the MGX-2 service underscores KAPD's growing role in supporting the global logistics chain, bolstered by its leading operational and logistical capabilities.

The port features 43 fully serviced and equipped berths, with a capacity of up to 105 million tons of goods and containers. It is equipped with 80 electric trucks, as well as a number of specialized stations and advanced, modern equipment that enable it to handle various types of goods.

The new shipping service connects KAPD to seven regional and international ports, including Ningbo, Shanghai, and Shekou in China; Nhava Sheva and Mundra in India; Sohar in Oman; and Hamad in Qatar. The service will operate regular bi-monthly trips with a capacity of up to 9,000 standard containers.

KAPD received 21 coastal and bridge cranes this year, contributing to the development and modernization of the port. These enhancements are part of KAPD's transformation into a flexible and sustainable logistics center capable of receiving advanced and large ships with full productivity and high efficiency.