Iluka Resources production falls

April 22, 2010
ILUKA Resources' first quarter mineral sands production was down 24 per cent on year to 370,200 tonnes but said demand for its products was recovering.
Zircon output for the quarter was down 38.9 per cent on year to 58,500 tonnes, rutile output rose 36.4 per cent to 45,300 tonnes, synthetic rutile slipped 37.8 per cent to 85,600 tonnes and saleable ilmenite more than doubled to 109,200 tonnes.
"Demand for high-value mineral sands products recovered in Iluka's main geographical markets in the March quarter of 2010," Iluka said in a statement.
Iluka cut output in 2009 in response to slumping demand, and the Perth-based miner said it has met increased demand by increasing output and supplying from inventory.
"Iluka's current tight supply position in zircon and high-grade titanium dioxide reflects both strong demand recovery and a slightly slower than expected ramp-up of Murray Basin rutile production," the miner said.