Sri Lanka is aiming to enhance the global competitiveness of its mineral sands resources by organizing a one-day Technical Conference dedicated to this sector. The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce will facilitate this event on June 17 at the Galle Face Hotel in Colombo, running from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
With the rising global demand for mineral sands, utilized across various industries including construction, manufacturing, and advanced technology, Sri Lanka is focusing on optimizing its resource capabilities. The conference is designed to address the transition from merely having resources to creating sustained economic value.
This event, conducted in collaboration with Mineral Technologies Australia, will gather policymakers, technical professionals, and industry leaders from around the world to explore the complete process of mineral sands development, which encompasses exploration, extraction, processing, market trends, and environmental stewardship.
The conference will commence with an opening address from the Hon. Minister of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development, Sunil Handunneththi. Additionally, Mrs. C.N.B. Wijerathna, a Senior Geologist from the Geological Survey and Mines Bureau, will discuss the national objectives aimed at fostering a more competitive sector. Mr. D.M. Kumara Rathna Bandara, Chairman of Lanka Mineral Sands Ltd., is also scheduled to speak.
Technical sessions will delve into various facets of the mineral sands value chain, including financial aspects of projects, methods of mining and processing, environmental and water management strategies, product quality standards, ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) criteria, rehabilitation processes, and the dynamics of global markets, specifically in relation to Sri Lanka’s long-term sector growth.
The event will culminate in a panel discussion featuring prominent figures who will address the actionable measures necessary for establishing a competitive mineral sands industry in Sri Lanka. Key speakers will include Mr. Philip Murphy (Director, PWM Consulting), Mr. Simon Burgmans (Director & Principal Dredging Engineer, in2Dredging, Sri Lanka/Australia), Mr. Matthew Allen (General Manager, Business Development, Mineral Technologies, Australia), Mr. Ted Avis (Business Development Executive, Coastal & Environmental Services, South Africa), and Mr. Gavin Diener (CEO, TZ Minerals International Pty Ltd). The program will also include insights from experts from India, Australia, and Sri Lanka, ensuring a diverse range of technical and industry perspectives.
While Sri Lanka’s mineral sands potential is well-recognized, the current challenge lies in effectively developing these resources through improved technical coordination, clearer regulations, and readiness for investment.
