The Sydvaranger Mine has a rich history dating back to 1906, when it was first established as a small iron ore mine.
Located in Sør-Varanger, Norway, the mine has undergone significant expansions and modernizations over the years, with a current annual production of approximately 4 million tons of iron ore.
Sydvaranger Mine is one of the largest iron ore mines in Norway, with a long history of operation that spans over a century.
For another approach, see: Currency in Norway
History of Sydvaranger
Sydvaranger was first put into operation in 1910.
The mine's iron ore extraction has been active in phases since then, but since 2016, the operation has been in maintenance mode.
In 1971, the crusher moved to accommodate the mine's expansion.
A 7,000 square meters roof was built over the pellets facilities to improve operation, and a new dock was opened for exporting pellets, allowing 75,000-tonne ships to dock.
Malmfart's ships became too small for the export operation and were sold between 1970 and 1972.
You might enjoy: R V Canadian Dredge & Dock Co
Mining Operations
Sydvaranger was first put into operation in 1910 and has been active in phases ever since, but since 2016, the operation has been in maintenance mode.
The mine's assets are particularly valuable due to their composition and high iron concentration, making them a prime candidate for a planned restart.
GRANGEX is developing the production technology to deliver a highly concentrated iron ore product, using fossil-free direct reduction processes.
The mine is classified as a mine with open-pit extraction and extracts magnetite, a type of iron ore mineral.
Sydvaranger holds operating concession and environmental permits and has completed a Definitive Feasibility Study (DFS) in August 2025.
The mine is expected to produce 3 million tonnes of magnetite concentrate per year, with a mineral concentration of 70 percent.
The estimated life of the mine is 25 years.
The mine's production will be exported from the existing terminal in Kirkenes, and the planned restart is expected to take place in November 2026.
Sydvaranger has a long history of mining, with the first Eisenerzvorkommen discovered in 1866 by Bergbauinspektor Tellef Dahll.
The mine was reopened in 2009 after a previous attempt at new mining activities failed in 1999.
Consider reading: Grå Starr Operation Risker
Featured Images: pexels.com
