2. Economic situation

2.1 State of the art

The last decade has seen a complete economic restructuring of this industry, from both the mining and metallurgical points of view. The production hubs have largely moved to Asia, particularly China.

Of the total zinc consumed worldwide, around 30% comes from recycling and 70% from mining. Global refined zinc consumption in 2007 was estimated at 11,347 kt, for metal production of around 11,353 kt (Source: ILZSG – Press Release 17/11/08). Global zinc ore production at the end of 2008 is expected to be around 11 to 12 Mt (expressed in zinc content).

The industrialization of the modern world and the emergence of new economies have greatly boosted zinc consumption. Between 1960 and 2001, average annual growth is estimated...