China out to expand iron ore output

China's largest iron ore-producing base in the Anshan-Benxi area will see a considerable increase in its output so as to meet growing demand from domestic market. By the end of 2010, Benxi Steel will be able to produce 20 million tons of iron ore and 8.5 million tons of concentrates. In the next six years, the mill will invest six billion yuan to further increase its concentrates output to 11.4 million tons and iron ore output to over 30 million tons.
Ansteel, another large steelmaker in Liaoning, has mobilized 14.7 billion yuan to update and expand its capacity at 10-odd mines and ore-dressing plants surrounding the Anshan area. By 2015, Ansteel's output will top 68.5 million tons for iron ore and 23 million tons for concentrates, up 22.5 million tons and eight million tons, respectively, from the present levels. Ansteel will further double its iron ore output to 92 million tons by 2020.