Regarding the laboratory copper extraction results exceeding 99%, she described them as encouraging if confirmed, but stressed the need to complete pilot tests and feasibility studies to verify the possibility of industrial application, while accounting for processing, water, energy, and environmental requirements costs.
Regarding the state's financial return, Zawati explained that estimating the announced government share, ranging from 48% to 50% of total profit, requires clarifying the mechanism for calculating profits and deductible costs, alongside royalties, taxes, and the impact of global copper prices to determine the actual expected revenues for the treasury.
She stressed that maximizing the project's gains requires moving beyond exporting raw or pure copper to establishing advanced industries relying on it, thereby enhancing the added value of Jordanian exports, providing sustainable job opportunities, and supporting knowledge and technology transfer and local procurement.
She added that reaching commercial production requires completing studies and licenses, securing financing, water, energy, and infrastructure, alongside committing to environmental requirements and enhancing transparency in contracts and reports, to support investment and ensure the expansion of the project's economic impact.
