Oman: Oman exported 11.2Mt of natural gypsum from its Port of Salalah in 2023, up by 11% year-on-year from 9.9Mt in 2022. Zawawi Minerals has reported that the main destination for exports was India, which received 5.3Mt (47%) of Oman’s exported gypsum for the year. Oman is reportedly the source of 90% of India’s gypsum imports.

Tajikistan: The government has inaugurated the new 30Mm²/yr Khatlon gypsum wallboard plant at Yavan. Central Asia Economic Outlook News has reported that the plant produces four different specifications of gypsum wallboard, as well as ceiling tiles and metal profiles and supports.

Saudi Arabia: The Saudi Arabian Public Investment Fund (PIF) has completed its acquisition of a 23% stake in paper products company Mepco. TradeArabia News has reported that the PIF aims to enable Mepco to expand production, increase efficiency and become more sustainable.

Mepco CEO Sami Al Safran said “PIF's investment further enables the implementation of our expansion strategy and captures significant growth potential, both locally and regionally. This will help create new opportunities, as Mepco continues its journey to become a national champion in our industry. Our company strives for sustainable growth and a better future, thanks to its unique strategy which integrates paper products and waste management. MEPCO is investing in the sector through ambitious projects to support Saudi Arabia’s goals of sustainability and transition to a circular economy by recycling, reducing waste and converting waste into energy sources to meet our business needs.”

India: The government has implemented new duties on imports of gypsum wallboard from China and Oman. Importers will pay US$23.46 – 47.62/t on Chinese gypsum wallboard and US$71.80 – 91.42/t on Omani gypsum wallboard. The Hindu newspaper has reported that precise rates will depend upon the producer of the wallboard.