Basra: The Ministry of Industry and Minerals has announced the successful operation of the lime factory in Basra, boasting a production capacity of 200 tons per day.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the General Company for Iron and Steel in Basra Governorate, a subsidiary of the Ministry of Industry and Minerals, confirmed the resumption of operations at its lime plant. This development follows the completion of rehabilitation efforts, which are part of the company’s broader strategy to enhance its production facilities. The lime plant is now capable of producing high-quality quicklime (calcium oxide, CaO), with laboratory tests indicating superior quality compared to imported alternatives. The current production capacity stands at 200 tons per day, with potential for expansion.

The company highlighted that quicklime is a crucial material with applications across various industries, including sulfuric acid production, thermostone and limestone brick manufacturing, building materials, paints, sugar refining, and water purification. Additionally, it finds use in agriculture, iron smelting, mining, paper manufacturing, bleaching, lightweight concrete, and other industrial applications. The General Company for Iron and Steel expressed its readiness to supply quicklime to both public and private sector clients through a direct supply and distribution mechanism. This initiative aims to bolster domestic production and decrease reliance on imports.