Mining industry news covering mineral extraction, mining companies, commodities, and global mining sector developments.
Rob Levine argues that NewRange Copper Nickel's proposal for the NorthMet mine lacks credibility due to a history of legal and technical failures. He contends that the company should not receive regulatory leniency despite holding most permits, as critical approvals remain reversed by state courts.
Nexa Resources stock jumped to US$15.40 on Friday, driven by LME zinc prices reaching their strongest level since mid-2022 at nearly US$3,823 per metric ton. The rally reflects tightening mine supply in Peru and Bolivia amid recovering demand for galvanized steel.
Cerro Verde has proposed a US$3.4 billion investment package for mining expansion and water infrastructure in Arequipa, Peru. The deal includes an eighth agreement with Sedapar, the local public water company, totaling over US$1.292 billion through 2060 to address regional water needs.
The Ghanaian government has issued a 12-month turnaround plan for Adamus Resources to restore its mining operations. A joint six-member management team will oversee implementation, requiring the company to settle liabilities with tax authorities and creditors following the revocation of three mining leases. The Ghana Chamber of Mines commended the agreement and urged transparency during implementation.
The U.S. Department of Energy granted $100 million to Lilac Solutions to construct a large-scale lithium extraction facility on the north arm of Utah's Great Salt Lake. The project utilizes proprietary bead technology and supports the administration's strategy to onshore critical mineral processing, reducing reliance on China.
Southern Copper unveiled an $8.2 billion investment plan for four major mining projects in Peru through 2033. Key initiatives include the Tia Maria mine, expected to begin operations around 2027, and new facilities at Los Chancas and Michiquillay targeting production starts in 2031 and 2032 respectively.
Nigeria's Solid Minerals Development Fund will issue grants covering up to 70% of exploration costs for junior mining companies. The program targets untapped reserves of over 44 minerals, including lithium and cobalt, across 500 locations. This initiative aims to diversify revenue away from oil, which currently dominates foreign exchange earnings.
Zimbabwe's mining export earnings surged 121% to US$6.21 billion in the first half of 2026, driven by a 176% jump in gold revenues to US$3.82 billion and an 82.8% rise in platinum earnings. Total foreign currency receipts reached US$10.72 billion, though usable reserves remain low at US$1.7 billion.
The Ghana Mineworkers' Union is demanding the suspension of a Minerals Commission directive on contract mining, threatening industrial action starting September 1. Union leaders accuse government policies of fueling precarious employment, noting that over 95% of sector workers are now in fixed-term or casual roles.
Mining giant Vale presented a lobbying document to Brazil's 2026 presidential candidates, proposing fifteen initiatives to streamline environmental licensing. The company argues these reforms could generate R$1.3 trillion in cumulative tax revenue over ten years while simultaneously seeking authorization for rare earth exploration areas.