The global zinc production landscape shifted dramatically between 1995 and 2023, revealing rising dominance and surprising declines. Visual data highlights these significant changes.
China’s zinc production skyrocketed from 1,000,600 tons in 1995 to 4,000,000 tons in 2023, making it the global leader. Rapid industrialization, surging demand for galvanized steel, and massive infrastructure projects fueled this growth. Government support, heavy investment in smelting capacity, and low production costs further boosted output, driving continuous expansion.
Canada, the leading zinc producer in 1995 with 1,121,172 tons, saw its output plummet to 250,000 tons by 2023. This decline resulted from major mine closures (Brunswick, Selbaie), a lack of new discoveries, and competition from lower-cost producers. Price volatility, stricter environmental regulations, and high mining costs reduced investment, while companies shifted focus to more profitable metals like gold and copper. Additionally, increased zinc recycling lowered demand for new production.
India’s zinc production surged to 860,000 tons in 2023, driven by industrial growth and mining expansion. Rapid urbanization and rising demand for galvanized steel in construction and infrastructure fueled this increase. The 2002 privatization of Hindustan Zinc Limited (HZL) led to major investments in mining and smelting, while supportive policies and a booming auto sector further accelerated growth.
Other Key Players (2023):
Peru: 1,400,000 tons
Australia: 1,100,000 tons
United States: 750,000 tons
Mexico: 690,000 tons
Bolivia: 490,000 tons
Kazakhstan: 330,000 tons
Country | 1995 Production | 2023 Production |
Canada | 1,121,172 | 250,000 |
China | 1,000,600 | 4,000,000 |
Australia | 937,000 | 1,100,000 |
Peru | 692,290 | 1,400,000 |
United States | 643,877 | 750,000 |
Mexico | 363,658 | 690,000 |
Kazakhstan | 162,400 | 330,000 |
India | 154,500 | 860,000 |
Bolivia | 146,131 | 490,000 |
Source: U.S. Geological Survey, Mineral Commodity Summaries, January 2024