The Skillings Mining Review February 2021 issue of reflects on a year defined by disruption, yet remarkable resilience for the iron ore sector. Despite the challenges of COVID-19, 2020 proved to be an exceptional year for iron ore mining, with robust demand from China, strong pricing, and renewed confidence across global markets. Our cover story takes a closer look at the factors that drove this surge, the regions that benefitted most, and what it signals for the year ahead.
In the Americas, Vale receives approval to expand Serra Leste, while officials in the Great Lakes region step up efforts to halt illegal mining. The Lake Carriers Association highlights the role of maritime shipping in sustaining the industry, while controversy surrounds last-minute Trump-era mining approvals in lands considered sacred by native tribes.
The Equipment section captures the pace of innovation: Oxbotica secures $47 million to accelerate mine automation, Booyco wins a significant proximity detection order in Namibia, and Blanket Mine commissions its Central Shaft project. Quebec miners express relief at being spared from lockdown restrictions, while copper continues to burn brightly amid bullish market momentum.
In Global mining news, Alaska shines as a bright spot in a difficult year, Peru’s copper exports face disruption from Las Bambas blockades, and Equatorial Guinea makes strides in gas and mining exploration. India strengthens its ties with Finland’s GTK through a new MoU, while Australia’s Adani Mine faces pressure from U.S. and Norwegian investors. Meanwhile, iron ore’s global strength is underscored as Rio Tinto posts healthy results and previously mothballed mines in the Northern Territory reopen to meet China’s soaring steel demand.
Finally, the Statistics section grounds the issue with key benchmarks: global crude steel output declining by 0.9% in 2020 and November 2020 crude steel production figures.
Together, Skillings Mining Review February 2021 captures a mining sector marked by resilience, transition, and opportunity—with iron ore’s breakout year setting the tone for 2021 and beyond.
