Kaolin demand set to hit 24.8M tonnes in 2013

ERJ staff report (RD)

Cleveland, Ohio -- Industry research company Freedonia Group Inc. is forecasting global demand for kaolin, an additive used in the rubber industry, will increase 1.7 percent annually to reach 24.8 million tonnes in 2013.

In its 'World Kaolins' report, Freedonia said kaolin demand in advanced economies is expected to recover from the declines of the 2003-2008 period, but will decelerate somewhat in emerging economies, a statement from the Cleveland, Ohio-based company said.

The majority of demand in 2013 is expected to be driven by Asia, particularly strong demand gains in China -- expected to account for over a half of global gain -- as well as other developing countries, the statement said. Kaolin demand in Asia-Pacific is expected to increase by 3.7 percent from 2008-2013.

According to Freedonia, China is forecast to overtake the US as the largest market for kaolin by 2013, largely driven by China's rapidly expanding domestic paper industry. Kaolin demand in the US is expected to fall by 1 percent between 2008-2013, while demand in Western Europe is expected to increase by 0.4 percent between 2008-2013.

Kaolin demand forecast 2003, 2008, 2013 (thousand tonnes):

North America - 5450, 5040, 4800

Western Europe - 7080, 6890, 7040

Asia-Pacific - 5760, 7190, 8640

Other Regions - 3010, 3730, 4320

Total kaolin demand - 21300, 22850, 24800

World Kaolins is a 232 page report published in Dec 2009 and available for $5700. For more information visit the link below.

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World Kaolins from Freedonia Group Inc.