Gypsum industry news

UAE: The government of the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah has launched Ras Al Khaimah Minerals, an investment company for the minerals and metals industries. The Arabian Post newspaper has reported that the government aims to leverage Ras Al Khaimah's natural resources, including gypsum, to attract local and foreign investors. This will help to diversify its economy away from oil and gas.

Kenya: Gypsum traders in Garissa have called on the government to lift a ban on gypsum mining in the country. The ban also prevents land allocation and demarcation. The Star newspaper has reported that it resulted from a perceived security threat due to violence at local mines, in which 12 people have died.

Mine owner Issa Kuno invited Cabinet Secretary for Mining, Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs Hassan Joho to visit. He said “Personally, I have never experienced or witnessed any insecurity related to gypsum mining activities."

Natural gypsum mined in Garissa County previously sold for US$38.60/t.

Canada: Fortune Minerals has appointed Worley Canada Services to lead an updated feasibility study and assist with permitting for the NICO bismuth, cobalt, copper and gold mine project in Northwest Territories. Dow Jones Institutional News has reported that the project includes a hydrometallurgical plant in neighbouring Alberta that will precipitate gypsum for sale.

Fortune Minerals secured US$12.5m in funding from Alberta Innovates, Natural Resources Canada and the US Department of Defence. The finances will support studies, including for the hydrometallurgical plant, environmental assessments, management plans and authorisations.

Belarus: The Council of Ministers has issued Resolution 688, effecting a temporary ban on exports of most foreign gypsum from the country. Business World Magazine News has reported that the ban only affects gypsum that originates outside of Belarus and Russia.

India: The Bikaner District Mining Department plans to issue a new round of tenders for local gypsum mines. The Times of India newspaper has reported that the department previously tendered contracts for the sites in Rajasthan for US$7.27m earlier in 2024.

The Bikaner District Mining Department said “Like every year, gypsum production will be lower until September due to the rainy season. We are hopeful of finding takers this time."

Oman: The Ministry of Energy and Minerals has announced an auction of four gypsum mines in Thamrait, Dhofar Governorate. Zawya News has reported that the total area of the mines is 27km². Preliminarily assessment of the sites has already taken place. Prospective bidders can participate in the auction through the ministry’s Taqa digital platform.

India: Residents of Baramulla have commenced protests against renewed gypsum mining in the district in Jammu and Kashmir. Local press has reported that the protestors claim the operations cause ‘serious’ harm to health and agriculture. The village council of Salamabad responded by temporarily suspending operations at the site in question.

Bolivia: The Port Services Administration (ASP) despatched a 3000t pilot shipment of gypsum to Paraguay on 23 July 2024. The gypsum, from Cochabamba, was loaded onto three river barges for transport via the River Paraguay from Puerto Busch in Santa Cruz. Local press has reported that ASP used 200t/hr conveyor belts for loading.

General manager Dante Justiniano said "This milestone not only represents a significant advance in the area of infrastructure and national logistics, but also fulfils the mandate of our President Luis Arce, which aims to establish a port that enhances foreign trade and strengthens import and export, with access to the Atlantic Ocean.”

Brazil: The Brazilian Geological Service (SGB) has announced its upcoming auctioning of gypsum mining sites in Pará. Business News Americas has reported that lots include the Calcário Aveiro site and the Gipsita Rio Cupari site. Altogether, prospective buyers can bid on 2890 hectares of gypsum reserves.

Egypt: The Egyptian government plans to expand the country’s Golden Triangle Economic Zone (GTEZ), a development region centred on mineral extraction. Gypsum is among the key products of the GTEZ, alongside phosphate, iron and gold. Zawya Projects News has reported that the government aims to establish a ‘comprehensive economic hub’ in the zone, including the development of residential, commercial and leisure facilities.