Iron stone is one of the most important raw materials for steel production, utilized in various industries such as automotive, construction, machinery, and more. Iran is among the world’s largest producers and exporters of iron ore, possessing vast reserves of this mineral.
Iran has over 300 iron ore mines, with the majority located in central, eastern, and southeastern regions of the country. These regions include provinces such as Kerman, Yazd, Isfahan, Khorasan Razavi, South Khorasan, North Khorasan, Semnan, Markazi, Qom, Tehran, and Alborz.
Some of the largest and most significant iron ore mines in Iran include:
- Golgohar Mine: Located in Kerman Province, Golgohar is the largest iron ore mine in Iran and the Middle East. With reserves of 1.2 billion tons of iron ore at a grade of 55%, this mine produces approximately 15 million tons of iron ore annually.
- Chadermalu Mine: Situated in Yazd Province, Chadermalu is the second-largest iron ore mine in Iran. With reserves of 400 million tons of iron ore at a grade of 51%, it produces around 10 million tons of iron ore annually.
- Choghart Mine: Found in Yazd Province, Choghart is the third-largest iron ore mine in Iran. It has reserves of 300 million tons of iron ore at a grade of 53% and produces approximately 7 million tons of iron ore annually.
In 2021, Iran exported around 140,000 tons of iron ore to Russia, marking a 100% increase compared to the previous year. The majority of the iron ore exported to Russia is of 60% grade, suitable for steel production.
Some reputable and well-known companies in the field of iron ore production and sales in Iran include:
- National Iranian Copper Industries Company: The largest iron ore producer in the Middle East, this company operates several iron ore mines in Sarcheshmeh, Midook, Golgohar, Chadermalu, and Choghart. The company produces and supplies iron ore in raw, pellet, and concentrate forms.
- Mobarakeh Steel Company, Isfahan: One of the top steel producers in Iran, this company operates several iron ore mines in Sangan, Chadermalu, Golgohar, and Choghart. It produces and supplies iron ore in pellet and slab forms.
- Isfahan Iron and Steel Co. (Zob Ahan): As one of the oldest and most reputable steel producers in Iran, this company owns several iron ore mines in Sangan, Chadermalu, Golgohar, and Choghart. It produces and supplies iron ore in various forms.
Iran’s iron ore industry plays a crucial role in supporting the steel production sector, contributing significantly to the country’s economy.
