The Americas

Rio Tinto and Chinalco have signed a non-binding memorandum of understanding (MoU) to establish a joint venture covering the development and operation of the Simandou iron ore project in Guinea.

USGS survey data indicates growth for gypsum industry from November to December 2009.

The USGS Mineral Industry Surveys publication "Cement in December 2009” has recently been published. This report provides monthly data on the shipments of cement to final customers, and the production of clinker, in the United States from January 2008 through the current month.

Production of crushed stone in the US decreased in 2008, as did consumption. Imports increased slightly, but exports remained stable.

The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is seeking public comment on the annual Inventory of US Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Sinks: 1990 – 2008 draft report.

Following the devastating earthquake in Chile, Anglo American is pleased to announce the donation of US$10 million (equivalent to just over Ch$5 billion), which will be allocated to projects to rebuild houses and schools and implement emergency water and electricity services.

Cemex USA has been awarded US$1.1 million funding to demonstrate carbon capture technology.

The EPA has named Cemex USA a 2010 ENERGY STAR Partner of the Year for outstanding energy management and reductions in greenhouse gas emissions.

The Portland Cement Association (PCA) has announced its support for a study conducted by Southern Methodist University’s (SMU) Maguire Energy Institute, which examines the contributions of the cement industry to US economic health.

Diana Shipping Inc. has reported a massive drop in Q4 net income, which fell from US$ 54.2 million in Q4 2008 to US$ 27.6 million.

Less than 9% of shareholders have taken up CSN’s offer to purchase a 33% stake plus one share in Cimpor.

Lafarge has announced that it will receive Brazilian cement assets in exchange for the sale to Votorantim on 3 February 2010 of its 17.28% stake in the Portuguese Cimpor group.

US-based McIlvaine Company has published new forecasts on air pollution control systems now becoming even more essential to meet stricter standards and regulations.

Lafarge is creating the potential for increased shipping traffic along the Saginaw River following the acquisition of two docks in Saginaw and Bay City.

Cemex has announced the sale of 12 quarries in the US to SPO Partners & Co.