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| Ivanhoe Mines zinc |
Ivanhoe Advances Zinc Supply Talks with US
Ivanhoe Mines is negotiating with Congo’s Gecamines and Mercuria to supply zinc from the Kipushi mine. As a result, the US Project Vault aims to secure long-term strategic metals. Meanwhile, the $12 billion program combines $1.67 billion private capital with a $10 billion Export-Import Bank loan facility. Therefore, Western buyers increasingly compete with China for critical minerals from Africa.
Kipushi’s production is forecast at 240,000–290,000 tonnes of zinc concentrate this year. In addition, the mine produces germanium and gallium, critical for semiconductors, defense, and clean-tech industries. Consequently, Ivanhoe’s shipments will support US stockpiles and diversify supply chains. Mercuria will assign existing offtake to Gecamines while ramping up volumes later this year.
Strategic Implications for US-Congo Mineral Cooperation
The US-Congo collaboration forms part of a broader effort to secure Africa’s polymetallic resources. In contrast, China dominates global production, creating geopolitical risk. Meanwhile, US-backed consortia like Orion are channeling cobalt and copper into Project Vault. As a result, these partnerships enhance supply reliability, stabilize rare metal prices, and strengthen strategic industrial planning.
Ivanhoe’s involvement underscores private sector contributions to national security metals. Furthermore, Gecamines plans to expand processing capabilities for zinc, copper, germanium, and gallium. Therefore, Project Vault may accelerate stockpiling and secure critical materials for aerospace, defense, and advanced technologies.
ScrapInsight Commentary
Ivanhoe’s Kipushi zinc supply strengthens US strategic stockpiles, reducing reliance on China. Production of germanium and gallium adds semiconductor and defense security. Long-term, private-public collaboration may stabilize prices and enhance Western critical metal independence.
