Mineral Development Strategy of West Azerbaijan Province by QSPM Method

Regarding variety of mineral resources, reserves tonnage, economic potentials, and geographical conditions of West Azerbaijan province, there are substantial opportunities in the province. By analyzing and selecting proper strategies and their implementation, the mining sector could operate as the leading sector of the regional economy. Assessing the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats of the mining sector in this region by employing the SWOT method were the main objectives of this research. To achieve the goals, these factors were evaluated by the contribution of elites of the sector in the beginning. By applying external and internal factor evaluation matrix, external and internal evaluation matrix and SWOT method, the most significant factors were evaluated. Subsequently, the strategy direction for the mining sector was determined, and the attractive strategies were developed. The different options were evaluated by implementing the QSPM matrix, and the superior strategies were selected. The results indicated that the strategy of joint ventures with foreign leading companies of dimension stone was recommended as the most attractive strategy due to new technologies transformation and variety in dimension stone products.