Egypt and Xcalibur sign MoU to launch nationwide mineral mapping initiative

01/12/2025 05:40 AST

Egypt is preparing to roll out a nationwide geophysical aerial survey to map its mineral resources under a new agreement signed with Spain's Xcalibur Smart Mapping

Petroleum and Mineral Resources Minister Karim Badawi witnessed the signing of the memorandum of understanding between the country's Mineral Wealth and Mining Industries Authority and Xcalibur during a visit to the company's operational site at Jandakot Airport in Western Australia.

The MoU was signed by Yasser Ramadan, chairman of the authority, and Bart Anderson, Xcalibur's CEO. It enables the exchange of geological and technical data, joint research, and cooperation on exploration programs, according to a ministry statement.

The memorandum comes as part of Egypt's broader efforts to enhance its investment climate in the mining sector.

According to the MoU, the two parties will "exchange scientific, technical, and academic documents in the fields of geology and mining, as well as anticipated risks," and collaborate on evaluation programs and research activities.

In a statement on its official Facebook page, the ministry stated: "The project is a national initiative to carry out geophysical aerial survey of aircraft and satellites in all governorates of Egypt to build a modern and detailed database of the geological potential of the state."

It added: "It is planned to divide the survey into six research areas, namely the Eastern, Western Deserts, Sinai, Marine Oasis and Abu Tartour."

The first stage involves integrating historical geological records with satellite imagery on a new digital platform. The initial magnetic aerial survey will be followed by detailed assessments in areas deemed to have high mining potential.

During his site tour, minister Badawi reviewed aircraft hangars prepared for the aerial survey operations, observed the deployed sensor systems, and assessed flight data systems and safety protocols used by Xcalibur.

Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources Karim Badawi recently announced a new incentive package aimed at attracting Australian small and medium-sized mining companies and start-ups to invest in mineral exploration across Egypt.

The package includes reduced rental values for exploration contracts, tax and customs exemptions on exploration equipment and related services, a unified license covering multiple minerals, and the introduction of reconnaissance licenses to mitigate risk for emerging firms.

Additionally, a one-stop-shop mechanism is being established to expedite permit issuance through the Mineral Resources and Mining Industries Authority.