New Silica Supply

EU glassmakers will soon have access to a new supply of silica sand from Jordan. A $15m project to build a silica sand processing plant is underway with backing from private investors in the Middle East and a $5m combined loan and equity investment from International Finance Corporation. The project is designed to produce 530,000 tonnes a year of different grades of sand for the tableware, crystal, container and flat glass industries, as well as for companies making ceramics/paint/rubber. It is being set up by Middle East Regional Development Enterprises (MEREN). Exports from the plant will be mainly to Europe and the Gulf states. (whole item)