Tronox Files to Counter Move to Halt First-Phase Construction of its Fairbreeze Mineral Sands Mine in South Africa

 

MTUNZINI, South Africa, Oct. 16, 2012 /PRNewswire/ — Tronox Limited (NYSE: TROX) today formally noted its opposition to an application made by the Mtunzini Conservancy for an injunction to halt the early-phase construction underway at the company’s new KZN Sands Fairbreeze mine project in northern KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.

In opposing papers filed in the Durban High Court, Tronox remains firm in its belief that the action by the Mtunzini Conservancy is without merit and that the early-phase construction, including site establishment and temporary access roads, that commenced in early October 2012 is within the required legislated framework. Tronox is confident that it has followed due process and is prepared to take all steps necessary to protect its right to advance the opening of the Fairbreeze mine.

When operational, the Fairbreeze mine will preserve more than 1,000 permanent and contractor positions and create an additional 1,000 indirect jobs during the construction phase of the project. Approximately ZAR530 million will be spent annually on services and products, with more than half spent with black economic empowerment (BEE) companies.

Tronox is committed to environmental stewardship and sustainability in all aspects of its business operations. The company has included environmental sustainability considerations in its plan for Fairbreeze and has begun the rehabilitation of its Hillendale mine, which Fairbreeze is designed to replace.

About Tronox

Tronox is a global leader in the production and marketing of titanium bearing mineral sands and titanium dioxide pigment. Through the integration of its pigment and mineral sands business, the company provides its customers a dependable supply of brightening solutions for a variety of end uses. For more information, visit http://www.tronox.com.

South Africa Contact:
Natalie Keegan
Tel: +27 35 902 7840
Email: natalie.keegan@za.tronox.com

Media Contact: Bud Grebey
Direct: +1.203.705.3721
Email: bud.grebey@tronox.com

Investor Contact: Brennen Arndt
Direct: +1.203.705.3722

SOURCE Tronox Limited

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