Glen Kalavampara, secretary of Goa Mineral Ore Exporters Association (GMOEA) said, "The concept of mining should be understood. It's not like other industries that can be located and relocated. We cannot be told that we do not want this mining site here, do it elsewhere. It has to be understood by policy makers and the common man as well. This is our primary aim. Mining should happen at the site where it is located."

In April-September 2008, iron ore exports from India dipped by roughly 5% to 37.93 million tonnes as against 39.79 million tonnes during the corresponding period a year ago. Goa saw its lowest exports of iron ore since 2000.

Other than the global economic slump adversely impacting the credit availability in the international market, recognition of similar quality of the Australian ore as in Goa at a better price and quality was also a reason.

With the drop in iron ore prices, buyers also preferred to import high grade ore as opposed to the lower-grade ore mined in Goa. Decline in shipping rates also placed Indian ore at a disadvantage compared with ores from Australia and Brazil, as they are cheaper now on a cost and freight basis.

The GMOEA is also looking forward to rebouncing of the market in 2009. "Based on the profits last year and year before last miners planned for higher capacity. Therefore, we are looking for early rebouncement so that the sector can sustain itself."

Further, he said, "Certain tax barriers need to be cleared so that export can take place without restraint. This is vital for low grade ore export as there is no other market."

GMOEA says that it is also expecting from the state government better infrastructure in terms of roads, better connectivity, less congestion at the port in the coming year.

Kalavampara said, "We are looking for quick clearances and lesser administrative delays." He says that all these factors will help mining sector to bounce back faster.

(c) 2009 The Times of India. Provided by ProQuest LLC. All rights Reserved.

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