DrasChem to Build Middle East’s First Sodium Cyanide Plant in Egypt

Plans are in place for the Middle East’s first sodium cyanide manufacturing facility to be developed at the Sidi Kerir Petrochemical Complex, west of Alexandria. The project carries initial investments of USD 200 million and is designed for an annual production capacity of 50,000 tonnes, according to the General Authority for Investments and Free Zones.

The plant will be established by DrasChem Specialty Chemicals, a private free-zone company, and is scheduled to begin production in 2028 following completion of the first phase. Sodium cyanide is primarily used in gold extraction, with the facility intended to serve regional and international markets.

The project is structured across three phases. The second phase is expected to double sodium cyanide output and introduce additional derivative products, while a third phase would expand into the manufacture of sodium-ion battery components, reflecting a move toward higher-value and technology-linked chemical products.

DrasChem Specialty Chemicals is a recently established company operating under the special free-zone system after receiving cabinet approval. Austria’s Petrochemical Holding GmbH is listed as its largest shareholder. The project was presented during a meeting between representatives of the General Authority for Investments and Free Zones and the DrasChem delegation.