Published on 8th December 2008

DECEMBER 8 - Companhia Vale do Rio Doce, the world's biggest iron-ore producer, has suspended operations at two pellet plants at the port of Tubarão, Brazil, in response to slumping demand.

DECEMBER 8 - TSX- and ASX-listed minerals company Anvil Mining has begun the process of suspending concentrate production, postponing underground development work, and initiating a care-and-maintenance programme at its 90%-owned Dikulushi copper mine.

DECEMBER 8 - Cliffs Natural Resources, the biggest iron-ore producer in North America, will reduce production of the steelmaking ingredient at its six mines in the US and Canada, in response to falling demand and prices.

DECEMBER 8 - The continued deterioration of the stainless steel market has prompted ferrochrome producer Assmang to close another furnace, cutting output by an additional 45 000 t/y.