FLSmidth’s ambitious plan to open or expand seven service centres globally by 2025 is set to reshape the mining industry’s landscape, driving productivity, sustainability, and local economic growth. This strategic move, aligned with FLSmidth’s CORE’26 mining strategy, underscores the company’s commitment to enhancing service capabilities and reducing operational downtime for mining customers worldwide.
The new facilities in Accra, Ghana; Surabaja, Indonesia; and Dammam, Saudi Arabia, along with the relocation and expansion of existing centres in Mackay, Australia; Parauapebas, Brazil; Karaganda, Kazakhstan; and Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, will significantly bolster FLSmidth’s global service network. These centres will serve as critical hubs for equipment repair, maintenance, and warehousing, ensuring that mining operations run smoothly with minimal interruptions. Christian Fabry, Head of Professional Services at FLSmidth, emphasizes the strategic importance of these locations: “With these new openings and expansions, we further strengthen our service capabilities and best-in-class service offerings to customers. We can do that by shortening the operational down time for customers thanks to the service centres strategic proximity to mine sites and greater availability of spare and wear parts to local customers.”
The impact of these developments is particularly pronounced in Ghana, where the mining sector is a cornerstone of the economy. Dr. Sulemanu Koney, CEO of the Ghana Chamber of Mines, highlights the strategic importance of the Accra facility, noting that it will enhance efficiency, sustainability, and value addition in Ghana’s mining industry. Mining contributes 10% to Ghana’s GDP and over 60% of total export revenue, with gold alone making up more than 50% of national exports. The sector’s role in foreign exchange earnings and job creation is undeniable, with mining companies returning an average of 74% of export earnings into the country. Dr. Koney underscores the importance of local procurement, revealing that in 2023, mining firms spent $3.1 billion on local goods and services, representing 53% of total mineral revenue. The FLS Service Centre in Accra is poised to create jobs, support local communities, and contribute to national revenue, while also helping mining firms minimize operational downtime and improve supply chain reliability. The facility will also enhance local expertise through advanced training for Ghanaian engineers and technicians.
Beyond operational benefits, the Accra facility aligns with Ghana’s aspirations to become a hub for mining support services in West Africa. Dr. Koney calls on industry players to invest in local manufacturing, technology, and workforce development to sustain Ghana’s mining leadership. He commends FLSmidth for its commitment to Ghana’s industrial and economic progress, urging stakeholders to embrace innovation, sustainability, and responsible mining to ensure long-term economic transformation.
FLSmidth’s comprehensive range of service offerings, including a strong inventory of OEM spare parts, regional and global field engineers, remote asset health and performance optimisation services, mineral laboratory services, and upgrades, rebuilds, and exchange services, will be instrumental in maximizing productivity for mining companies. This strategic global presence and advanced service-based solutions are designed to provide responsive support wherever customers are located.
The ripple effects of FLSmidth’s expansion are far-reaching. The increased availability of spare parts and local expertise will not only reduce downtime but also foster a more sustainable and efficient mining ecosystem. The focus on local procurement and workforce development will drive economic growth and job creation, particularly in regions where mining is a key economic driver. As FLSmidth continues to invest in these strategic locations, the mining industry can expect a shift towards more resilient and innovative practices, setting a new standard for global mining operations.