Other BriefingsBahrain-Based TAHA International Signs Technology Licensing Deal with China’s NFC
By Qian Zhou
TAHA International for Industrial Services (TIIS), the leading aluminum dross processing company based in Bahrain, has signed a strategic technology licensing agreement with China Nonferrous Metal Industry’s Foreign Engineering and Construction Company (NFC). NFC is a state-owed listed company mainly engaged in international engineering contracting and non-ferrous mineral resources development.
The collaboration is to integrate TAHA’s world leading patented hot dross processing technology into NFC’s service package. This enhanced package will cater to a wide range of domestic and international clients.
Background
Aluminum dross—also known as aluminum slag—is traditionally regarded as waste in the aluminum smelting process. However, a cutting-edge international patent possessed by TAHA enables innovative processing of hot dross, transforming it into a valuable commercial resource. This waste-recycling approach has gained significant momentum in mitigating environmental waste and aligned with global pressure to implement sustainability innovation in highly polluting industries. According to a study by the consultancy EY in 2021, TAHA’s hot dross processing can reduce greenhouse gas emission by 81 percent.
NFC, a distinguished and prominent Chinese industry giant, stands out as a leading international supplier in the realm of constructing aluminum smelters. As China strives to revamp its economy to align with stringent environmental norms and address climate-conscious objectives, NFC has prioritized carbon reduction. The company is keen on achieving optimal resource utilization rates for its clients both domestically and abroad.
The TAHA-NFC deal and its implications
The collaboration will enable NFC to utilize TAHA’s patent on a global scale through its business developer, Barenyam Holdings International Pte Ltd, based in Singapore. Barenyam Holdings is a subsidiary of TechEngg Group in India. This strategic approach empowers NFC to achieve maximum global reach and provide exceptional customer service in key markets.
The collaboration not only incorporates TAHA’s hot dross processing technology into NFC’s service package but also involves cooperation in integrating specific solutions and services from both companies in the field of aluminum smelters. NFC’s broad client base spanning various markets will bring valuable expertise to the partnership as well. Such exchanges will ensure the implementation of best practices for growth and sustainability on an international scale.
Amar Awachi, CEO of TIIS, said that TAHA’s unwavering commitment to technological innovation and sustainable solutions, as effective tools for addressing environmental challenges and fostering business growth, will once again prove to be a winning strategy in its collaboration with NFC. “TAHA is thrilled to contribute to greening the Chinese aluminum industry and supporting international projects as part of the Belt and Road Initiative.”
Qin Junman, President of NFC, expressed strong enthusiasm about the partnership with TAHA. He underscored the critical role this collaboration will play in elevating the company to new heights in both Asian and global markets. Furthermore, he emphasized that joining forces with a prominent and influential entity like TAHA in the aluminum hot dross processing sector will not only enhance NFC’s global competitiveness but also bolster China’s prominence in the world economy.
The bigger picture
Green transitioning and sustainability have been prioritized in both the Middle East markets and China.
After decades of breakneck economic growth, China is making it a priority to develop a green, low-carbon, and circular economy in coming decades and in keeping with COP26 targets. Continuing along the same growth track will be unsustainable and inefficient – an assessment that is backed by top policymakers. China’s State Council has released a guiding opinion outlining the transition plan for how China will initially form the production system, circulation system, and consumption system featuring green, low-carbon, and recycling development by 2025 and fundamentally improve the ecological environment to achieve the goal of “beautiful China” by 2035. Accomplishing these goals requires serious social and economic transformation. It is inevitable that a green and low-carbon transition in the country will impact all types of market players. It can be expected that more and more environmental-conscious future-looking Chinese companies will outreach for similar collaborations.
Similarly, the focus on green industries is also expanding in the Middle East. While the region’s economy remains heavily reliant on the traditional oil and gas industry, the global emphasis on sustainable development and environmental protection is prompting Middle Eastern countries to acknowledge the significance of green sectors.
Businesses equipped with technological advantages and a strong focus on green expertise are poised for significant growth—not only within the region but also globally. Their commitment to sustainable practices will also position their brand strongly in an increasingly environmentally conscious world.
