Tanzania's coal supply expected to increase to support cement industry

Tanzania’s State Mining Corp (STAMICO) has announced plans to increase coal production, which will support the cement industry as it has recently reported a shortage of the material. The coal shortage resulted in a rise in cement prices, according to The Citizen.

"To implement the government directives, we will begin to sell coal to local cement producers and the surplus will be exported," said Alex Rutagwelela, acting exploration and drilling director.

Despite currently producing 18,600tpm, the increased demand for the fuel means that the company will begin production of larger quantities. "After three months, we plan to increase production to around 45,000tpm as the demand is high," said Mr Rutagwelela.

However, the plans are weather-dependent since it would be difficult to raise production in the rainy season.