Lebanon - Mining

Lebanon's mineral industry continued its historically small contribution to the economy. Mining activity was limited to the production of salt and the quarrying of raw materials for the construction industry, particularly limestone and silica for cement manufacture. In 2001, hydraulic cement production totaled 2.7 million tons, down from 3.3 million tons in 1998; gypsum, 1,300 tons; lime, 13,500 tons; and salt, 3,500 tons. Cement exports accounted for 3% of total exports. In 2001, Lebanon also produced semimanufactured iron and steel, phosphatic fertilizers, phosphoric acid, and sulfuric acid. Modest deposits of asphalt, coal, and iron ore occurred, and the country had no petroleum or gas reserves. The success of Lebanon's minerals industry depended on the long-term restoration of peace and stability in the country.