The Zijin Mining Group is a Chinese multinational mining conglomerate that is one of the world’s largest gold producers. It has been operating in Colombia since 2008 and is the largest foreign investor in the country’s mining sector. In May 2021, the company’s gold mine in Colombia, located in the municipality of Buritica, was the…
A downturn in some of the highly touted energy-transition metals is causing disruptions throughout the mining sector. This has led to project delays, thwarted deals, and a race for funding that is poised to impact the industry for years. Lithium, a crucial metal for electric-vehicle batteries, has experienced an over 80% drop from its late-2022…
Saudi Arabia has increased its projections for untapped mineral resources, encompassing phosphate, gold, and rare earths, to $2.5 trillion, a significant upward revision from the 2016 forecast of $1.3 trillion, as indicated by the country’s mining minister. This reflects Riyadh’s strategic emphasis on diversifying its economy away from oil dependence, with a focus on harnessing…
Europe’s Green Deal is a comprehensive and ambitious plan aimed at transforming the continent into a climate-neutral and sustainable society by 2050. At the core of this initiative is a shift towards renewable energy, electric mobility, and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. However, the path to achieving these goals faces a significant roadblock –…
In recent decades, mines have progressively adopted cleaner, safer, and more efficient operations, benefiting from advancements in positioning and orientation technology that facilitate automation and autonomy. Indeed, a 2020 report from Baker McKenzie revealed that the global smart mining market was valued at US$6.8 billion in 2019, with projections anticipating it to reach US$20.31 billion…
AngloGold Ashanti, the world’s third-largest gold producer, has announced that it is putting its Crixas gold mine in Brazil up for sale. The company said that the decision to divest the mine was part of its ongoing strategy to focus on its core operations and to reduce its exposure to countries with high political and…
Nationalization remains a prominent subject in mining discussions. With tightening supply chains and increasing strength in long-term demand drivers, resource-rich nations are striving to secure a larger portion of their mineral wealth. Throughout South America, Africa, and Asia, countries are challenging established norms that enable multinational miners to profit substantially from local resources. Although nationalization…
Amidst the ongoing violent turmoil in Ecuador, the emerging mining industry envisions a path forward, as both operational mines and upcoming projects are anticipated to proceed as scheduled, bolstered by heightened security measures. Despite residents taking refuge at home due to President Daniel Noboa’s war on drug gangs, mines belonging to Lundin Gold Inc. and…
In recent years, concerns over the ethical and environmental impact of mining have grown, prompting a global push for responsible and sustainable practices within the industry. The issue of “blood metals,” which are minerals extracted from conflict zones or areas with poor labor practices, has particularly gained attention. In response to this mounting awareness, Avalon…
Trafigura, a global commodity trading firm, has garnered notoriety in metal circles, particularly concerning its dealings in the nickel market. The company’s activities and reputation have been the subject of widespread discussion and scrutiny within the industry. This article will delve into Trafigura’s infamous status in the metal market, highlighting the reasons behind its controversial…
