Pilbara Ports Authority has received regulatory approval to support the export of ammonium nitrate through the Port of Dampier.

The Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety (DMIRS) has issued Pilbara Ports Authority with a Special Berth Licence for handling ammonium nitrate, which is classified as Dangerous Goods.

New trade opportunity through Port of Dampier

Preparatory works for the introduction of ammonium nitrate through the port have included extensive procedures for the safe and efficient handling of the product, upgrades to operational controls and enhanced firefighting capabilities.

The Special Berth Licence currently allows for the shipment of 3,600 metric tons of ammonium nitrate with the opportunity to increase export volumes in the future.

Harbourmaster Captain Vikas Bangia said obtaining approvals for ammonium nitrate exports was achieved through collaborative efforts between Yara Pilbara and Pilbara Ports Authority. 

“The introduction of ammonium nitrate exports presents a new trade opportunity through the Port of Dampier,” said Captain Bangia.

Ammonium nitrate is the main component of explosives used by the mining, quarrying and construction industries, as well as being a primary ingredient in fertilisers.

Source: Pilbara Ports