At present, there is a global shortage of silica sand, owing to a number of export bans and the increased demand for sourced sand which is both environmentally and socially responsible. Sands found in deserts are unsuitable for the purposes the market requires, as it is shaped by wind rather than water, resulting in a further lack of supply.

Set out below is an Asian market overview:

Use	Specification	Market Size in Asia
Float Glass (incl. auto)	99.5% SiO2	60-65 Mt
Container Glass	99.5% SiO2	60-65 Mt
Cover Glass	99.5% SiO2	5-6 Mt
Smart Glass	99.5% SiO2 & low Iron	5-6 Mt
Specialist Glass	99.5% SiO2 & low Iron	500-660 Kt

The Asia-Pacific region is expected to remain the largest regional consumer of industrial sand through 2025, supported by the dominant Chinese market. The country’s container glass industry may drive further silica sand sales, supported by rising production of glass bottles, particularly in the alcoholic beverage sector including wine and beer.

High-grade silica sand used in the glass, metal casting, and ceramics industries, contains a high portion of silica (over 99% SiO₂) and are valued for a combination of chemical and physical properties. Global consumption of industrial silica sand is expected to climb 3.2% per year through 2022.

Asia-Pacific growth is higher than global growth and is expected to be around 5-6% per year. Ongoing economic and infrastructure development in the Asia-Pacific region may drive growth.