Key Facts
Zinc prices are holding near multi‑year highs with London Metal Exchange spot zinc quoted around 3,529.00 dollars per tonne on 20 July 2026, close to levels last seen four years ago.
Global refined zinc demand rose 1.9 percent to 13.86 million tons in 2025 while refined production grew 2.1 percent, leaving the market in a modest 33,000‑ton deficit as mine output expanded.
Nexa Resources produced 79,000 tonnes of zinc in Q1 2026 an 18 percent increase versus Q1 2025, supported by record output at its Aripuanã operation and recovering Brazilian smelters.
Buenaventura reported an average realised zinc price of 3,451 dollars per metric ton in Q2 2026 showing how Peruvian miners have been able to lock in strong terms for zinc alongside gold, silver, lead and copper sales.
