Ceramic and Refractories Industry in Kerala

The ceramic and refractories industry produces inorganic and non-metallic materials to withstand extreme heat, thermal shock, and chemical corrosion above 1,000°C. The ceramic and refractories industry in Kerala is anchored by rich local mineral deposits (like china clay/kaolin). Public-sector Undertakings like Kerala Ceramics Ltd and Kerala Clays and Ceramics Products Ltd process local raw materials for utilities and structural uses.

■ Kerala Clays and Ceramic Products Ltd (KCCPL)

KCCPL is a public sector undertaking engaged in the mining and processing of china clay and aluminous laterite. It produces various grades of china clay required by diverse industries such as ceramics, rubber, pesticides, and pharmaceuticals. Aluminous laterite is an essential raw material for cement manufacturing. The company operates three china clay mines across the Kannur and Kasaragod districts, as well as an aluminous laterite mine in Kasaragod. It has consistently remitted dividends to the government for the past 35 years. Originally established by Samuel Aaron in 1959, the company was taken over by the government in 1976 following financial losses and resumed operations under the name KCCPL in 1984.

■ Kerala Ceramics Ltd (KCL)

It was established in 1937, during the reign of the Kingdom of Travancore, with the aim of mining and processing china clay. A separate unit for manufacturing porcelain ware was also set up. In 1963, both units were merged, and operations commenced under the name KCL.