IBT reports steady throughput capacity despite operations halt

Australian mining firm New Hope Corporation Limited reported on Tuesday that in August 2004-January 2005 period, its 50 percent owned coal handling terminal PT. Indonesia Bulk Terminal (IBT) achieved a throughput of 3.6 million tons, similar to previous corresponding period, despite only operating in five months.

The company said that increased portion of throughput came from independent coalmines.

IBT was forced to halt operations in January after a panamax vessel hit the jetty while maneuvering to berth, causing damages to the conveyor belt structures.

The company also reported that during the period IBT retired its outstanding loan.

IBT operates a coal terminal in Pulau Laut off South Kalimantan with throughput capacity of around 8 MTPA. Its major client is its affiliated company South Kalimantan coal producer PT. Adaro Indonesia. Adaro shipped some 6 million tons of coal from IBT last year. Other clients are Arutmin Indonesia, Bahari Cakrawala Sebuku, Aspac Coalindo and Marunda Graha Minerals.

New Hope is planning to sell its entire interest in IBT and Adaro. (alex)