SHFE Zinc Surges to 6-Month High after Sichuan Earthquake, SMM Reports

U.S. Senators Lisa Murkowski of Alaska and John Hickenlooper of Colorado have introduced the Earth MRI Reauthorization Act, which would extend funding for the U.S. Geological Survey’s Earth Mapping Resources Initiative (Earth MRI) through 2031. Earth MRI combines airborne geophysical surveys, geologic mapping, geochemical sampling and advanced data analytics to improve understanding of critical minerals, geothermal resources and subsurface geology. The program provides publicly available geological data that help reduce exploration risk and development costs for mining companies. According to U.S. officials, mineral exploration spending in Alaska has more than doubled since the initiative began. The proposed legislation would maintain support for critical minerals exploration while expanding the program to include natural hydrogen resources and enhanced geological hazard assessments, further strengthening the foundation for future domestic critical mineral supply chains.

[July Refined Zinc Production Continues to Decline, Watch Actual Maintenance at Large Smelters] According to SMM statistics, in June 2026, SMM China refined zinc production fell by around 18,000 mt, or over 3.2%, MoM and 3.8% YoY. Cumulative production from January to June increased by over 4% YoY, falling short of expectations...

Market sources say Qatar's July sulfur official contract price has been released at $890/mt, up $85/mt MoM.