A stockpile of 40 824 t has been produced to manage surplus demand during the rainy season, which has now commenced. This is in line with government requirements for surplus stock to avoid any disruption to industrial supply.
Sales were 40 885 t compared to 35 370 in November 2016. YTD sales are 210 636 compared to 132 575 in 2016. Sales were lower than October due to customers finding it difficult to hire trucks to pick up the coal but this is expected to only be a temporary shortage.
The increase in prices that has taken effect over the previous few months and the improvement in mining efficiency resulted in a small profit in October 2017.
Talks have been held with the Mtwara Port Authorities in Southern Tanzania to enable the preparations for coal to be exported from the port. Discussions are now being held with transport companies to optimise the efficiency of haulage to the port.
IEC Chairman, Graeme Robertson, commented: "It is pleasing to note the ability of the mine to produce at a rate of more than 700 000 tpy although availability of trucks is of concern. It is important that trucks be allowed to haul trailers to attain higher payloads for coal and cement to enable competitive road haulage for regional and export trade. This is critical to Tanzania for development."
