South American Metals & Minerals Outlook Primed for Growth in 2010

SUGAR LAND--January 12, 2009--Researched by Industrial Info Resources (Sugar Land, Texas)--The vast natural resources of South America have attracted big investments in mine development in recent years, establishing South America as a world leader in mined Metals & Minerals. With more than 340 major operational mines, South America is a major producer and exporter of iron ore, copper ore, lead ore, zinc ore, gold ore, silver ore, bauxite, coal, dimension stone, limestone, phosphate rock and lithium. In terms of operational mines, Brazil, which accounts for 50% of South America's GDP, population and land area, leads all South American countries, with 167 mines. Chile is second with 71 mines, and Peru is third with 63 mines. Industrial Info has just released the South America Mining Industry Wall Map, featuring 344 operational mines and more than 150 mines under development (planning, engineering or under construction).

Companies featured: Vale (NYSE:VALE)