Zinc Oxide Producers See Slight Operating Rate Rise, Forecasted to Climb Further Next Week

Hindustan Zinc Limited, the world’s largest integrated zinc producer, released its production figures for the fourth quarter and full year ending March 31, 2026. The company maintained consistent output across zinc, lead, and silver, sustaining operational momentum and reinforcing its standing as a top base metals producer. The data demonstrates continued efficiency and strong capacity utilization throughout the year. In Q4 FY 2025‑26, Hindustan Zinc achieved a record quarterly mined metal production of 315 kt, up 2 % year‑on‑year, while refined metal output also hit a new high of 282 kt. For the full year, mined metal production reached 1,114 kt, and refined zinc output totaled 851 kt, underscoring robust operational performance.

Terramin has begun site preparation for the Tala Hamza zinc and lead project in Algeria, following lengthy delays caused by land access issues that have now been resolved by the government. The project, one of the world’s largest undeveloped zinc deposits, will require an estimated $471 million in total investment and is expected to produce approximately 170,000 tonnes of zinc and 30,000 tonnes of lead annually. This initiative supports Algeria’s efforts to diversify its economy and enhance its position in the global base metals market.

On April 2, Nyrstar announced that the sale of its US assets to Korea Zinc was completed on April 1. The assets involved included the East Tennessee and Mid Tennessee mining complexes as well as the Clarksville smelter. The transaction, first announced in December 2025, had received all necessary regulatory and government approvals. Assets and employees were transferred to Korea Zinc under existing terms, ensuring a seamless transition in operations, safety standards, and production. Under the terms of the agreement, Trafigura will continue to market and sell the Clarksville smelter’s total production of zinc metal and supply concentrate and oxide to the operation throughout 2026.