OREANDA-NEWS. April 7, 2008. The world uranium production growth in 2007 was below the forecast level: 4.3% against forecast 10%-13%, reports Atomredmetzoloto OJSC (Uranium Holding ARMZ).

Experts say that a total of 41,120 tons of uranium were produced worldwide in 2007 against 44,430 tons forecast by UxC Consulting and 43,320 tons forecast by the World Nuclear Association.

Eight countries produced 90% of all world uranium: Canada, Australia, Kazakhstan, Russia, Niger, Namibia, Uzbekistan and the Untied States. In 2007 Russia produced more than Niger (3,413 tons) and rose from the 5th to 4th place.

The leader in uranium production was Canada – 9,475 tons (4% growth). Australia was the second – 8,603 tons (+13%), Kazakhstan — the third – 6,638 tons (+26%).

Niger and Namibia reduced their uranium productions by 8% and 6% to respective 3,154 tons and 2,878 tons. Uzbekistan produced 0.5% more than in 2006 – 2,270 tons. The Untied States produced 1,800 tons (14% more than a year before).

Experts say that this year will be more successful for uranium producers. The demand for uranium is steadily growing, especially in South-East Asia, so, the companies worldwide are planning to enhance their pace.

Kazakhstan, Namibia and Canada are expected to be the leaders this year. Kazakhstan is planning to produce 40% more than in 2007 (2,810 tons), Canada – 5%-8% more (500–800 tons) due to McClean Lake deposit, Namibia – 1/3 more due to Rossing mine. 

UxC Consulting forecasts that this year uranium production in the world will grow by 13% to 46,850 tons but ARMZ experts doubt that this forecast is realistic especially as Kazakhstan and Namibia are not yet showing as high activity as they were expected to. “We expect that this year world uranium production will grow by 7% rather than 13% to 44,000 tons, at most,” says ARMZ.

11 more states produce uranium. In 2007 their total output made up 2,930 tons or 7.1% of the total. Ukraine produced 800 tons, China – 750 tons, SAR – 520 tons, the Czech Republic – almost 300 tons, Brazil – almost 200 tons and India – 200 tons. Countries like Romania, Pakistan, Iran and Argentina produced no more than several dozens or even just a few tons. France and Germany obtain a few tons of uranium from mine waters while reclaiming mines.