Ore exporters in Goa hope to retain buyers

Mineral exporters from Goa have said that they may not have to scout for new buyers overseas once the Supreme Court lifts the ban on mining exports, due to their "unblemished relationship" with the buyers.

The mining industry has been expressing concerns that the one-year-long gap in exports might turn away traditional buyers from countries like China and Japan, which are markets for the low grade ore produced in Goa.

The apex court order has kept on hold mining export in the state since last year.

However, Glenn Kalavampara, secretary, Goa Mineral Ore Exporters Association told PTI: "The mining firms which had 5-6 decades of unblemished track records in exports would not have serious concerns in reassuring their established markets."

The companies, including all GMOEA members, have taken years to nurture their buyers and therefore it will not be difficult to get the buyers, he said.

Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar had earlier indicated that mining might resume within next three months.

Kalavampara said that only after the state government, the Centre and the Supreme Court lift suspension, can exports commence in Goa. He expressed hope that all authorities would look into the seriousness of the issue and ensure that the industry is resumed at the earliest.

While all ores produced in Goa are low grade with little domestic demand, it is well suited for exports to several areas, he said.

Over 7-8 million tonne ore may be lying at jetties and ports and possibly few more at mining sites which can be ascertained by the government to find a possibility to ship it out and help in earning foreign exchange in these troubled times, he said.

Kalavampara also expressed hope for early resumption of mining operations in Goa, saying that the ore lying at jetties and port is ready for export, as the royalty on it has already been paid.

"There will be more ore which is extracted and lying in various mining leases and yards," he said, adding that royalty has been paid on the bulk of ore.

On the policy drafted to convert land used for mining dumps by the state government, Kalavampara said the same was long due and a step in the right direction. He, however, expressed concerns on high charges levied on it.