-- Iluka Resources (ASX:ILU) reported first-quarter zircon, rutile, and synthetic rutile production of 47,600 tonnes, down nearly 64% from 130,700 tonnes a year earlier, according to a Wednesday filing with the Australian bourse.
The decline comes as the company's Cataby mine in Western Australia is idled and not producing heavy mineral concentrate, including no production of zircon or rutile, per the filing.
Additionally, Iluka Resources reported mineral sands revenue of AU$147 million for the March quarter, down from AU$260 million in the year-ago period. The company said the Middle East conflict has reinforced cautious business sentiment across its end markets, and the greater uncertainty has impacted customer purchasing activity.