Secret Zinc Deals Korea Locking Up Supply Chains West Left Behind

Robert Gultig

30 December 2025

Secret Zinc Deals Korea Locking Up Supply Chains West Left Behind

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Written by Robert Gultig

30 December 2025

Introduction:

In recent years, the global zinc market has seen a surge in demand from various industries, leading to a race for securing stable supplies. South Korea has been making strategic moves to lock up zinc supplies, leaving Western companies scrambling to catch up. With the increasing importance of zinc in various sectors like automotive, construction, and electronics, these secret deals have significant implications for supply chains around the world. According to recent data, global zinc production reached 13.5 million metric tons in 2020, with Asia-Pacific accounting for the largest share at 56%.

Top 20 Items:

1. Korea Zinc Company: Korea Zinc Company is a key player in the global zinc market, producing over 1.3 million metric tons of zinc in 2020. Their strategic deals and investments have allowed them to secure a significant portion of the global supply chain, leaving many Western companies behind.

2. Nyrstar: Nyrstar is another major player in the zinc market, with a production volume of 1.1 million metric tons in 2020. The company has been actively expanding its operations to meet the growing demand for zinc in various industries.

3. Glencore: Glencore is a leading diversified natural resources company, with a zinc production volume of 1 million metric tons in 2020. The company has a strong presence in the zinc market and plays a crucial role in shaping global supply chains.

4. Hindustan Zinc Limited: Hindustan Zinc Limited is one of the largest integrated producers of zinc in India, with a production volume of 780,000 metric tons in 2020. The company’s focus on operational excellence and sustainability has helped it secure a strong position in the market.

5. Teck Resources Limited: Teck Resources Limited is a Canadian mining company with a zinc production volume of 670,000 metric tons in 2020. The company has been investing in new technologies and sustainability initiatives to enhance its competitiveness in the global zinc market.

6. Boliden: Boliden is a Swedish mining and smelting company, producing 580,000 metric tons of zinc in 2020. The company’s focus on innovation and efficiency has enabled it to maintain a strong position in the market.

7. Trevali Mining Corporation: Trevali Mining Corporation is a Canadian zinc-focused base metals mining company, with a production volume of 320,000 metric tons in 2020. The company has been actively exploring new opportunities to expand its zinc production capacity.

8. China Minmetals Corporation: China Minmetals Corporation is a major Chinese state-owned enterprise, with a zinc production volume of 300,000 metric tons in 2020. The company’s strong presence in the zinc market has made it a key player in shaping global supply chains.

9. MMG Limited: MMG Limited is a global resources company, producing 270,000 metric tons of zinc in 2020. The company’s focus on sustainable mining practices and community engagement has helped it build a strong reputation in the market.

10. Grupo Mexico: Grupo Mexico is a Mexican mining company, with a zinc production volume of 250,000 metric tons in 2020. The company’s strategic investments in new projects have positioned it as a key player in the global zinc market.

11. Vedanta Limited: Vedanta Limited is a diversified natural resources company in India, producing 220,000 metric tons of zinc in 2020. The company’s strong operational performance and focus on sustainability have contributed to its success in the zinc market.

12. BHP Group: BHP Group is a leading global resources company, with a zinc production volume of 200,000 metric tons in 2020. The company’s commitment to responsible mining practices and innovation has helped it maintain a competitive edge in the market.

13. KGHM Polska Miedz: KGHM Polska Miedz is a Polish mining company, producing 180,000 metric tons of zinc in 2020. The company’s focus on technological advancements and cost efficiency has made it a key player in the zinc market.

14. Zijin Mining Group: Zijin Mining Group is a Chinese mining company, with a zinc production volume of 160,000 metric tons in 2020. The company’s strategic acquisitions and investments have strengthened its position in the global zinc market.

15. Hudbay Minerals Inc.: Hudbay Minerals Inc. is a Canadian mining company, with a zinc production volume of 140,000 metric tons in 2020. The company’s focus on sustainability and community development has helped it secure a strong foothold in the zinc market.

16. Sumitomo Metal Mining Co., Ltd.: Sumitomo Metal Mining Co., Ltd. is a Japanese mining company, producing 120,000 metric tons of zinc in 2020. The company’s commitment to innovation and quality has enabled it to establish a reputable presence in the market.

17. Nexa Resources: Nexa Resources is a global mining company, with a zinc production volume of 100,000 metric tons in 2020. The company’s focus on operational excellence and sustainability has positioned it as a key player in the zinc market.

18. Dowa Holdings Co., Ltd.: Dowa Holdings Co., Ltd. is a Japanese mining company, producing 80,000 metric tons of zinc in 2020. The company’s strong track record in environmental management and resource efficiency has contributed to its success in the zinc market.

19. Lundin Mining Corporation: Lundin Mining Corporation is a Canadian mining company, with a zinc production volume of 60,000 metric tons in 2020. The company’s focus on safety and operational efficiency has helped it maintain a competitive position in the market.

20. Antofagasta Minerals S.A.: Antofagasta Minerals S.A. is a Chilean mining company, producing 40,000 metric tons of zinc in 2020. The company’s strong commitment to sustainable mining practices and social responsibility has earned it a reputable status in the zinc market.

Insights:

The strategic moves by South Korea to lock up zinc supplies have highlighted the growing importance of securing stable supply chains in the global market. With the increasing demand for zinc in various industries, companies around the world are facing challenges in ensuring a consistent supply of this essential metal. It is crucial for Western companies to adapt to the changing dynamics of the zinc market and explore new partnerships and investments to secure their position in the supply chain. According to forecasts, global zinc consumption is expected to reach 15 million metric tons by 2025, underscoring the need for proactive strategies to meet the growing demand. By closely monitoring market trends and collaborating with key players, companies can navigate the evolving landscape of the zinc market and drive sustainable growth in the long run.

Related Analysis: View Previous Industry Report

Author: Robert Gultig in conjunction with ESS Research Team

Robert Gultig is a veteran Managing Director and International Trade Consultant with over 20 years of experience in global trading and market research. Robert leverages his deep industry knowledge and strategic marketing background (BBA) to provide authoritative market insights in conjunction with the ESS Research Team. If you would like to contribute articles or insights, please join our team by emailing support@essfeed.com.
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