TMTPOST-- Vale S.A. and Jinan Steel Group have announced a strategic partnership to establish an iron ore processing plant in the Port of Sohar and the Free Zone in Oman. The initial investment for this project exceeds $600 million, marking a significant step in enhancing regional iron ore processing capabilities. The Sohar processing plant is expected to commence operations by mid-2027, with an annual capacity to process 18 million tons of iron ore and produce 12.6 million tons of high-grade concentrate. Vale will contribute approximately $227 million to connect the processing plant to the region's pellet production facilities. Meanwhile, Jinan Steel Group plans to invest around $400 million for the construction, ownership, and operation of the plant.