Industrial Minerals

Focus of the Week

• Fertilisers approaching 2007 levels 30 July 2010

  The fertiliser industry is looking at healthier days with increases forecasted in both consumption and production Read More

• IM Global Health Check: Q2 2010 22 July 2010

  IM looks at the world’s economy and how it will affect industrial minerals demand for the next quarter and beyond Read More

• Rare earth fears become reality 15 July 2010

  China’s decision to cut annual rare earth exports by 40% will likely lead to supply shortages and surging prices for the rest of the world Read More

• Soda ash contract pricing 08 July 2010

  France-based soda ash company Novacarb puts forward its case for a new pricing formula for the glass-making mineral, bringing prices in line with the costs of production Read More

• Canadian asbestos controversy 01 July 2010

  Protests hit Hong Kong and South Korea as Canada considers re-opening a Quebec based asbestos mine in a bid to boost the local economy. Keith Nuthall explores the situation that has caused controversy, particularly in the consuming countries in Asia. Read More

• Fluorspar prices under fire 24 June 2010

  With acidspar prices reported to have reached the $300/tonne watermark, many industry sources warn that hikes are not being driven by the market, which remains weak following the recession Read More

• The impact of lithium stockpiles 17 June 2010

  Ed Ilgren and Yumi Kamiya investigate an unaccounted for lithium source that could impact future supply developments for the energy mineral Read More

• Russian potash playoff 10 June 2010

  Russians and Belarusians compete to sell potash behind Chinese wall as speculation surrounds potential Uralkali divestment Read More

• Neodymium in US spotlight 04 June 2010

  The US House of Representatives has passed a bill aimed at re-establishing Nd-Fe-B magnet production on American soil, but what does this mean for developers of rare earth mines? Read More

• Opportunities in Oman 27 May 2010

  Oman’s mineral sector has grown significantly since 2007. A variety of mineral projects and specific demand from India look set to maintain this momentum of development. Read More

• China’s search for potash 20 May 2010

  China is the world’s largest consumer of potash but must import 8-9m. tonnes annually to meet demand. IM looks at China’s strategy to expand domestic production while advancing exploration overseas Read More