Definition
The scope of the mining division includes all operations mainly engaged in "mining", in the exploration for minerals, and in the provision of a wide variety of services to mining and mineral exploration. The term "mining" is used in the broad sense to include the extraction of minerals occurring naturally as solids such as coal and ores, liquids such as crude petroleum, or gases such as natural gas. Extraction of minerals is undertaken by such processes as underground or open cut mining, dredging, quarrying, the operation of wells or evaporation pans, or by recovery from ore dumps or tailings, and all supplementary activities aimed at preparing the crude materials for marketing. Activities include milling, dressing and beneficiation of ores, screening, washing and flotation. These activities are generally carried out at or near mine sites as an integral part of mining operations. Natural gas absorption, purifying and similar treatment plants are also included in this division. The Mining Division excludes units mainly engaged in refining or smelting of minerals or ores (other than the preliminary smelting of gold), or in the manufacture of such products of mineral origin as coke or cement. These units are classified under Division C Manufacturing. The commodities produced by the Mining sector involve the minimum amount of processing to produce a marketable product. Many businesses which have mining units also have manufacturing units which further process the mined material. Where separate accounts are not available, the unit (which both mined and further processed the material) is classified to Division C Manufacturing. Where separate accounts are kept (i.e. separate units exist), the unit which carries the last stage of processing is to be classified to Division C Manufacturing.

IBISWorld research reports contain trend analysis, statistics, market size information, industry growth rates as well as market share of competitors.

Major market segments are identified and also those forces affecting demand and supply within the industry. Performance analysis includes emerging industry trends as well as recent results and performance of each key company. Drawing on the depth of information IBISWorld also provides 5 year forecasts for each industry.

Each comprehensive study also examines details such as the barriers to entry, operating cost structure, technology & systems and domestic & international markets. Tables and statistics include: Industry revenue, exports, imports, wages and number of companies in the industry, Industry growth and geographic regional data.

Each comprehensive study also examines details such as the barriers to entry, operating cost structure (including averages), technology & systems and domestic & international markets. Tables and statistics include: Industry revenue, exports, imports, wages and number of companies in the industry, Industry growth and geographic location.