In April Angola exported 1,721 cubic metres of ornamental stone, up from 1,380 cubic metres in March, or an increase of 24.7 percent, according to figures in the Ministry of Geology and Mines bulletin.

The same report cited by Angolan news agency Angop states that the value of sales in the local and export markets amounted to US$617,000, versus US$403,000 a month earlier, or an increase of 53 percent.

The sub-sector of construction minerals that includes gravel, limestone, sand and clay, registered total production of 322,500 cubic metres, which originated in the provinces of Cabinda, Benguela, Namibe, Kwanza Sul, Kwanza Norte, Bié, Bengo, Huambo, Malange, Huila, Zaire and Uige.

Compared to results recorded in March (329,200 cubic metres) production in March fell by 2.02 percent.

In turn, diamond production in March reached 553,300 carats, which achieved a market value of US$83 million at an average price of US$150.07 per carat. (macauhub/AO)