Skillings_June_2025_final

Iron ore production in North America is navigating a landscape of rising demand.

38 Global Iron Ore: June 2025 Report

Volume: 114. Issue.06. June 2025

mining minds

The future of mining needs minds, not just machinery. In june 2025, over 1,200 mineral processing jobs remain open in North America alone.

Global Iron Ore: June 2025 Report

Global Iron Ore’s Pivot Year: Forging the Future. As iron ore markets realign across continents, 2025 is shaping up as a defining year.

Surge: India’s MECL Ramps Up Global Lithium Exploration

U.S. Peace Talks Gain Traction

Egypt's Mining Revolution

Five-Year Strategy Aims to Position Nation as Regional Powerhouse

With a sweeping five-year plan, the nation sets its sights on transforming from a resource-rich state into a global mining hub—driven by reform, innovation, and strategic geography.

37 Public Backlash Slows EU Minerals Plans 41 CPEC Supercharges Pakistan’s Mining Sector

41 Harmony Gold Makes $1B Copper Bet

42 Solaris Secures $200M from Royal Gold

44 Rio Tinto Commits $1.8B to Hydropower: Biggest Renewable Energy Investment Since the '50s

Skillings Mining Review of CFX Network LLC, publishes comprehensive information on global mining, iron ore markets and critical industry issues via Skillings Mining Review Monthly Magazine and weekly. SMR Americas, Global Skillings and Skilling Equipment Gear newsletters.

Skillings Mining Review (ISSN 0037-6329) is published monthly, 12 issues per year by CFX Network, 350 W. Venice Ave. #1184 Venice, Florida 34284. Phone: (888) 444 7854 x 4. Printed in the USA.

Payments & Billing: 350 W. Venice Ave. #1184, Venice, FL 34284. Periodicals Postage Paid at: Venice, Florida and additional mail offices.

Postmaster: Send address changes to:

SKILLINGS MINING

REVIEW NEWS ROOM

 Digital Monthly Magazine 12 issues

 Paywall-free website experience

 Digital archive back to 1912

 Skillings video stories and podcasts

 Subscriber-only newsletter

 Rich multimedia contentData, Photographs and Visuals

 Access paperless reading across multiple platforms. Portable, carry with you, anytime, anywhere

UNITED STATES

$72 Monthly in US Funds

$109 Monthly in US (Funds 1st Class Mail)

OUTSIDE OF THE U.S.A.

$250 US Monthly for 7-21 day delivery

$335 US Monthly for Air Mail Service All funds are monthly

Skillings mining review, 350 W. Venice Ave. #1184, Venice, Florida 34284.

Phone: (888) 444 7854 x 4.

Fax: (888) 261-6014.

Email: Advertising@skillings.net.

PUBLISHER CHARLES PITTS chas.pitts@skillings.net

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF JOHN EDWARD john.edward@skillings.net

CONTRIBUTING EDITORS ROB RAMOS AALIYAH ZOLETA MARIE GABRIELLE

MEDIA PRODUCTION STANISLAV PAVLISHIN media.team@ cfxnetwork.com

MANAGING EDITOR SAKSHI SINGLA sakshi.singla@skillings.net

CREATIVE DIRECTOR MO SHINE mo.shine@skillings.net

DIRECTOR OF SALES & MARKETING CHRISTINE MARIE advertising@skillings.net

MEDIA ADMINISTRATOR SALINI KRISHNAN salini.krishnan@ cfxnetwork.com

PROFILES IN MINING mining.profiles@skillings.net

GENERAL CONTACT INFORMATION info@cfxnetwork.com

CUSTOMER SERVICE/ SUBSCRIPTION QUESTIONS: For renewals, address changes, e-mail preferences and subscription account status contact Circulation and Subscriptions: subscriptions@Skillings.net. Editorial matter may be reproduced only by stating the name of this publication, date of the issue in which material appears, and the byline, if the article carries one.

Mining info you don't have to dig for...

Skillings Mining Review is supported by these leading providers of materials, services and supplies to the mining industry. Please patronize them whenever possible and let them know you saw their advertisement in Skillings.

because you asked about biodiesel

Rajani Modiyani, one of Chevron’s leading experts in the mining sector, answered eight pressing questions from owners and managers in the industry. Scan the QR code for the full Q&A.

40 Years of Global Search Experience

MRC Recruiting is a family-run corporation with 40 years of global search experience, from entry to board levels.

MRC Recruiting was founded to provide resource companies with experienced and leading high-potential candidates to build a sustainable workforce. It is a family-run corporation with a global network of experienced recruiters. They bring their expertise directly to hiring managers in a collaborative effort to achieve their immediate recruitment goals. The company specializes in clear and specific communications, employing a fee structure that works with their clients' budget, and implementing a hiring process that has been proven through years of successfully building quality, high-performance teams.

MRC Recruiting possesses extensive knowledge of the resource/mining space and strives to provide suitable candidates for every position. Their expertise in human capital development and organizational development ensures that clients receive only top, qualified candidates.

Your Team of Skilled Experts

Your team of skilled Recruiters who’ve developed long-standing relationships with clients and candidates to ensure the best fit possible between the two.

A blend of Human Resource and Mining backgrounds who understand the nuances of the mining and resource industries.

With a successful history of working across commodities with exploration through major companies, consulting firms, private equity, mining technology and OEMs.

Three benefits of a single supplier for bucket protection

For over 40 years, CR Powered by Epiroc has been a trusted partner supplying hardware and technology to miners worldwide. They have you covered, whether you need cast lips, GET, wear protection, or GET loss detection technology.

Why have CR as your one-stop shop for bucket protection?

1. Simplified inventory: CR supplies cast lips and GET for excavators, wheel loaders, and rope shovels, wear protection solutions, and GET loss detection technology. A single supplier, aligned with your specific maintenance schedule, makes for a smoother day-to-day operation.

2. In-depth understanding of your mine: Their bootson-the-ground approach means they spend time with you in the field to understand your goals and pain points. Their customized approach allows miners to achieve better productivity, profitability, and safety while reducing emissions.

3. Uninterrupted supply: CR’s team of forecasting experts plans for ongoing replacement parts based on your scheduled maintenance, minimizing machine downtime. Their outstanding customer service, allied with their global supply chain, ensures supply is continuous and inventory is kept up to date.

With lips and GET that are lighter and stronger than plate lips, you’ll improve penetration while reducing dig energy. CR’s wear protection range, Domite®, extends your bucket wear life by up to six times, and with GET Trakka™, you get rapid and reliable alarms with the ability to find lost GET.

Innovative Comminution Strategies from ME Elecmetal

Transformative Solutions, Unmatched Performance

At ME Elecmetal, we understand that success requires a balance of high quality products and services, advanced technologies, and dedicated client support. By combining wear parts with advanced digital tools, expert guidance, comprehensive training, and ongoing monitoring, we deliver substantial value to our customers.

Discover the possibilities with ME Elecmetal and unlock the full potential of your mining operations. Together, we’ll ensure optimal performance, efficiency, and success in every aspect of your processes.

Grinding Mill Liners

• Iron

Steel

Rubber

Composite

Grinding Media

• SAG Mills: 4.0” to 6.5”

• Ball Mills and Regrind Mills: 7/8” to 4.0”

Crusher Wear Parts

• Rod Mills: 3.0” to 4.0” Diameter • Gyratory Crushers

Cone Crushers

Jaw Crushers

EV SURGE

India’s MECL Ramps Up Global Lithium Exploration

India’s Mineral Exploration and Consultancy Limited (MECL) is escalating its lithium exploration activities in Argentina and Australia, signaling a strategic shift to secure critical minerals for the country’s electric vehicle (EV) ambitions. Through its joint venture Khanij Bidesh India Limited (KABIL), MECL is surveying over 15,000 hectares in Argentina’s lithium-rich Catamarca Province.

The initiative is part of India’s broader effort to reduce dependency on China for battery materials, as demand for lithium-ion cells surges in parallel with global EV adoption.

KABIL Targets South American Lithium Triangle

The cornerstone of this international push is KABIL’s work in the Lithium Triangle—a region spanning Argentina, Bolivia, and Chile that holds more than half the world’s lithium reserves. KABIL, a collaboration among MECL, National Aluminium Company (NALCO), and Hindustan Copper Ltd (HCL), has already signed a memorandum of understanding with the government of Catamarca. This agreement lays the groundwork for access to both new geological data and potential joint development of resources.

In a recent briefing, MECL stated that the 15,703 hectares currently under active exploration were identified based on geophysical surveys and satellite imagery.

Australia as a Strategic Secondary Node

While South America remains the priority, MECL is also evaluating pegmatite-hosted lithium deposits in Western Australia. Australian resources, known for their regulatory stability and mature

mining ecosystem, offer an attractive diversification path for KABIL. Exploration in the region is still in the early stages, with site reconnaissance and licensing negotiations ongoing.

According to a senior KABIL official, “Australia provides a hedge against the geopolitical uncertainties of South America and a direct line to high-grade hard rock lithium.”

Strategic Imperative: Domestic Supply for EV Ambitions

India’s electric vehicle market is forecast to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of over 40% through 2030, according to a report by NITI Aayog and Rocky Mountain Institute. This

exponential growth demands a reliable stream of lithium for battery manufacturing, particularly for two-wheelers, three-wheelers, and grid-scale energy storage systems.

Currently, India imports nearly all of its lithium needs, primarily from China, which dominates the global supply chain. In response, New Delhi launched the Critical Minerals Strategy in 2023, designating lithium as a key resource. MECL and KABIL’s overseas ventures are a direct outcome of this policy pivot.

Risk and Reward: Navigating the Global Resource Race

MECL’s moves come amid rising competition. Global mining majors and government-backed entities are racing to lock in lithium reserves across Latin America and Africa. However, India’s late entry into the global lithium race means it must leverage diplomatic capital and strategic partnerships to gain a foothold.

By working with subnational governments like Catamarca’s and focusing on unexplored tenements, MECL aims to minimize entry barriers and maximize first-mover advantages. However, challenges remain, including resource nationalism in Latin America and permitting delays in Australia.

HILL END PROJECT

Tomra Laser Sorting Revolutionizes Gold Mining

Vertex Minerals (ASX: VTX) is transforming gold processing at its Hill End project in New South Wales by integrating TOMRA LASER sorting technology, a breakthrough that enhances ore grade, lowers environmental impact, and strengthens operational efficiency.

The Hill End site, steeped in history, is now becoming a testing ground for cutting-edge gold processing technology that challenges conventional approaches.

A Historic Goldfield Meets a Modern Transformation

Located roughly 200 kilometers northwest of Sydney in the Eastern Lachlan Fold Belt, the Hill End goldfield has produced more than 1.6 million ounces of gold, including the famed Holtermann Nugget—a quartz specimen containing 93 kilograms of gold unearthed in 1872.

“The reason why this site is so historically significant is that it was one of the first places where the gold rush started,” said Roger Jackson, Executive Chairperson of Vertex Minerals. “It was already permitted, it was a high-grade gold mine, and we could see an opportunity to have one of the best high-grade gold mines in Australia.”

The project’s orebody, characterized by quartz veins in the Chesleigh Formation and Crudine Group, lends itself well to gravity separation techniques—avoiding the need for chemical processing. This makes it ideally suited for integration with TOMRA’s sensor-based sorting technology, particularly its advanced LASER capabilities.

Integrating TOMRA LASER Sorting Technology

In a move to boost both recovery rates and sustainability, Vertex Minerals recently adopted TOMRA’s LASER ore sorting technology. The system distinguishes quartz-rich, gold-bearing material from waste rock, effectively concentrating ore before it reaches the processing plant. The test phase saw 160 kilograms of ore from the Reward Gold Mine processed at TOMRA’s Sydney test facility. Screened to a 20–60mm size

fraction, the sample was run through the LASER sorter with impressive results. (see the table)

“The findings show a 337% increase in gold grade and a 79% mass reduction, with minimal loss of gold,” said Gavin Rech, Area Sales and Technical Manager for Australia at TOMRA Mining. Roger Jackson adds, “We can mine bigger stopes, sort it all, and still recover the same amount of gold through the process plant.”

Operational and Environmental Payoff

The adoption of TOMRA LASER sorting at Hill End is not just about operational gains. The environmental benefits are equally compelling. By pre-concentrating ore, Vertex significantly reduces energy and water use, minimizes tailings, and eliminates the need for chemical leaching.

“The material discarded by the sorter is proper barren material that can be used as road base or aggregate,” Rech noted, underlining the potential for secondary usage and responsible disposal.

Vertex’s commitment to sustainable mining practices aligns with TOMRA’s broader vision. “The TOMRA ore sorter

has been a game-changer for this site,” said Jackson. “It’s efficient in sorting out waste, reducing the power, water, and time needed to run the plant.”

Looking Ahead: Green Gold and Scalable Innovation

With this successful rollout, Vertex Minerals positions itself at the vanguard of the green gold movement. Future plans

may include scaling TOMRA’s gold processing technology across similar sites, maximizing recovery while preserving Australia’s natural heritage.

“It’s important that TOMRA is part of the industry change,” Rech concluded. “Companies like Vertex are stepping in to take an old traditional system and mine it in a more efficient way—with low energy, zero chemicals, no tailings dam. That’s something TOMRA wants to support.”

As gold miners face increasing pressure to reduce environmental footprints and improve resource utilization, Vertex’s integration of TOMRA LASER sorting offers a blueprint for how historic mines can thrive in a modern, eco-conscious world.

INTERNATIONAL ENERGY AGENCY (IEA) WARNS

Refining Concentration in Critical Minerals Poses Global Supply Risk

Refining concentration in the critical minerals sector is creating dangerous chokepoints that could destabilize global clean energy ambitions, according to a new report from the International Energy Agency (IEA).

Refining concentration in the critical minerals sector is creating dangerous chokepoints that could destabilize clean energy ambitions, warns a new report from the International Energy Agency (IEA). As countries electrify transport and scale renewables, mineral refining—dominated by a few nations, especially China—is emerging as a key vulnerability.

The market for minerals such as lithium, cobalt, copper, and rare earths is booming, driven by electric vehicles (EVs), solar panels, and battery storage. But “even in a well-supplied market, critical mineral supply chains can be highly vulnerable

to shocks,” said IEA Executive Director Fatih Birol.

China’s Grip on Global Refining

By 2035, the top three refining countries are expected to control 82% of global refined output. China has added over two-thirds of the world’s battery recycling capacity since 2020, deepening its dominance. This leaves the clean energy transition exposed to trade disputes, internal disruptions, and geopolitical leverage.

Upstream extraction is also under strain. Copper, vital for EVs and power grids,

could face a 30% supply shortfall due to declining ore grades and long project timelines. Lithium demand continues to outpace production, with deficits likely unless new capacity is rapidly developed.

Policy Response Still Too Slow

The U.S. Inflation Reduction Act and the EU’s Critical Raw Materials Act offer incentives and strategic frameworks to reduce dependency. However, progress in building domestic refining capacity remains sluggish. Long permitting timelines, environmental scrutiny, and high costs deter private investment without government support.

A Call for Midstream Investment

While mining is slowly diversifying, refining remains dangerously centralized. The IEA calls for coordinated global action to invest in refining, recycling, and midstream infrastructure. Without it, clean energy supply chains will remain fragile.

Conclusion

Refining has become the Achilles’ heel of the energy transition. Without deliberate diversification, access—not scarcity— could derail global climate goals.

Without deliberate, coordinated action, today’s refining choke points could become tomorrow’s economic flashpoints— dragging on innovation and imperiling the very transition they were meant to enable.

north america

iron ore mining

project report

Iron ore production in North America is navigating a landscape of rising demand for high-grade, low-emissions concentrate amid regulatory bottlenecks, shifting trade alliances, and capital reallocation toward value-added processing. While Canada expands into green steel inputs with state backing, the U.S. remains constrained by legacy permitting issues. Mexico, meanwhile, emerges as a potential supply-chain link in the North American steel arc under the USMCA framework.

CANADA

Resource Powerhouse with Green Steel Ambitions

Champion Iron Bloom Lake Phase II Expansion

Location: Fermont, Québec

Status: Commercial ramp-up of expanded facilities nearing full capacity.

Target Output: 15 Mtpa of 66.2% Fe ultra-low impurity concentrate

Backers: Québec Government, Investissement Québec, institutional investors

Update:

Phase II of the Bloom Lake mine is operational and running at 95% of nameplate capacity as of Q2 2025. Champion Iron is positioning itself as the Western Hemisphere’s largest producer of high-grade iron ore concentrate for green steel applications in Europe and the northeastern U.S.

Strategic Edge:

• Proximity to hydroelectric grid = carbon-free mining operations Fully integrated rail and port infrastructure via the Port of Sept-Îles

• Eligible for Inflation Reduction Act steel supply incentives in the U.S.

Nippon Steel’s Canadian JV Project

Status: Pre-feasibility phase

Investment: ¥4.5 billion (~CAD$41M) initial; potential ¥11.7B in full development

Goal: Secure a long-term, ESG-compliant iron ore supply for Japanese steel mills

Location: Likely Labrador Trough or central Québec

Insight: Nippon’s entry into Canadian ore aligns with Japanese industrial policy to de-risk from Chinese-Australian supply chains and invest upstream in strategic democracies.

UNITED STATES

Resource Rich, Permit Poor

Cleveland-Cliffs

(Minnesota & Michigan)

Assets: Taconite operations in Hibbing, Northshore, and Empire mines.

Status: Stable but not expanding; most ore is consumed internally in Cliffs' steel operations.

Key Note: Cleveland-Cliffs remains the largest U.S. iron ore miner, supplying almost 100% of domestic blast furnace needs. However, all operations are tied to aging steel infrastructure under pressure from flat steel demand and decarbonization mandates.

Mesabi Metallics

Nashwauk, Minnesota

Assets: Permitting dispute and political gridlock continue Capacity (proposed): 7 Mtpa pellet plant

Controversy: Competing claims between Mesabi Metallics and Cleveland-Cliffs have stalled progress despite a decade of investment and land acquisition.

Regulatory Barrier:

• Ongoing litigation over state mineral leases

• Minnesota DNR reluctant to commit amid financial viability concerns

Impact:

Nashwauk remains the single largest unrealized iron ore investment in the U.S. It could offer new domestic supply if legal hurdles are resolved.

Tacora Resources

Scully Mine, Newfoundland & Labrador (U.S. Parent)

Ownership: Based in Minnesota; operates in Canada

Production: ~6 Mtpa of highgrade concentrate

Strategic Role: Supplier to North American electric arc furnace (EAF) steelmakers

2025 Update: New 10-year offtake agreement signed with Big River Steel (Arkansas), tying Tacora's ore supply to low-carbon EAF production in the American Southeast.

MEXICO

Undervalued Supply Chain Link

AHMSA (Altos Hornos de México)

Status: In bankruptcy and restructuring

Assets: Iron ore mining and steelmaking integrated operations in Monclova

Potential: U.S. buyers circling as AHMSA’s assets offer access to regional steel and iron capacity with rail ties to Texas and Arizona

Forward View:

Mexico’s untapped potential as a raw material partner under USMCA remains dormant. A successful restructuring of AHMSA—or its

breakup—could bring new U.S. or Canadian ownership into the fold, creating a vertically integrated, tariff-free steel corridor.

What’s Next for North American Iron Ore?

Short-Term (2025-2026)

• Champion Iron expected to become North America’s flagship green ore exporter

• Cleveland-Cliffs will maintain internal supply focus, but may face EAF competition

• Nippon Steel’s feasibility decision could catalyze a new Canadian mega-project

Mid-Term (2027+)

• Possible revival of Mesabi Metallics if political realignment occurs

• Integration of Mexican assets under USMCA steel sourcing rules could unlock new supply chains

• Green steel and HBI (Hot Briquetted Iron) growth may shift focus from raw ore to direct reduced iron (DRI) feedstock

REFINING MAY BE THE BOTTLENECK, but inaction is the real threat to North America’s iron ore future.

North America Iron Ore Market Trends – Mid-2025

Indicator Value Trend

Spot Price (62% Fe) $104/tonne  -18% YoY

Canadian Iron Ore Output ↑ 22%

U.S. Pellet Output ↔Stable

Exports to EU ↑Moderate

Driven by Champion Iron

No new expansion

Canada gains market share due to green premiums

Challenges & Headwinds

Category Issue Impact

Permitting Delays EPA and state reviews stall new projects in MN, MI High

Aging Infrastructure

Market

Consolidation

Policy Incentives

U.S. rail and processing plants need major upgrades

Moderate

Limited independent developers left in U.S. High

U.S. IRA favors low-carbon steel, not raw ore

North America’s iron ore sector in June 2025 is defined by Canadian momentum, American stagnation, and Mexican uncertainty. Canada is emerging as the hemisphere’s answer to high-grade,

low-carbon iron ore supply, while the U.S. risks long-term decline unless permitting reforms and infrastructure investment accelerate. Strategic decisions in 2025–2026 will define whether

the continent remains a net exporter, strategic reserve, or transition hub for the global green steel revolution.

The race to modernize supply chains, secure ESG-compliant feedstock, and capitalize on clean steel incentives is accelerating.

Whether stakeholders act boldly or remain reactive may determine North America’s role in the next phase of industrial decarbonization.

Inaction, however, could hand long-term strategic advantage to global competitors already aligning policy with production.

The Carbon Crisis Beneath China’s Grasslands

A 21-year ecological analysis finds that surface coal mining has caused more than 91,000 tons of direct carbon loss from China’s semi-arid grasslands—undermining national climate goals and straining fragile ecosystems. Can restoration outpace degradation?

BOLD STRATEGIES to Restore Mined Ecosystems7

Surface Coal Mining: A Hidden Carbon Catastrophe

China’s semi-arid grasslands are quietly approaching a tipping point. According to a 2024 study published in Scientific Reports, carbon loss from these ecosystems reached 187.15 kilotons over a 21-year period. Of that, 91.92 kilotons were directly attributed to surface coal mining—the study’s primary focus.

Using the InVEST carbon storage model and land classification data from 2002 to 2023, researchers evaluated carbon dynamics across 16 land use categories.

The conclusion: surface mining is the single most damaging activity in terms of carbon sequestration loss in the region under review.

“The significant carbon stock decline is largely due to the conversion of high-density grasslands into low-functioning barren or mined land,” the authors note.

The 7-Point Restoration Blueprint

1. Revegetate with Native Species: Reintroduce local grasses and shrubs adapted to arid climates.

2. Adopt AI-Powered Monitoring: Deploy satellite and drone analytics to track progress and detect risks in real time.

3. Repurpose Mines for Renewable Storage: Convert deep pits into hydro storage or solar farms for climate-positive reuse.

4. Carbon Accountability in Permits: Link mining permits to car-

What Policies Have (and Haven’t) Done

Chinese policy reforms since 2011 have aimed to restore mined lands, restrict coal permits, and incentivize reclama-

bon impact, requiring companies to prove ecological net benefit.

5. Halt Mining in High-Carbon Zones: Protect carbon-dense soils with no-mining conservation designations.

6. Launch Carbon Credit Markets: Allow verified projects to earn income via global offset trading.

7. Empower Local Restoration Stewards: Hire and train community members to oversee grassland regeneration as long-term jobs.

tion. But the report reveals a critical gap between intention and impact. Interior regions—often vast and lightly monitored—have seen continued degradation despite these laws. The researchers call

for integrating carbon accounting into land use permitting and enforcement frameworks, especially in ecologically sensitive zones.

A 21-Year Declineand Signs of Hope

From 2002 to 2023, the study area showed:

• 73% of land maintaining stable carbon levels

• 23.63% experiencing a decline (mainly due to mining)

• Only 3.37% seeing gains, often from active reclamation or pilot restoration efforts

These figures illustrate how limited current efforts are—and how urgent scaled solutions must become.

A Glimpse Into the Future

Could Restored Grasslands Become Economic Hubs?

Some pilot regions are exploring dual-use models—restoration paired with eco-tourism, livestock reentry,

or renewable energy—to ensure financial sustainability alongside environmental recovery.

Conclusion: Restoration is Possible—but Needs to Scale Fast

The study offers a sobering but actionable outlook: the damage from mining is severe, but not yet irreversible.

Reversing the trend will require tighter policy enforcement, smart monitoring, financial incentives, and strong local participation.

China’s leadership on climate cannot afford to overlook its grasslands—among the country’s largest and most vulnerable carbon sinks.

By scaling up these seven strategies, the nation can begin to close the gap between its carbon ambitions and the on-the-ground reality of its mined ecosystems.

COPPER’S DIRTY

The Green Transition’s Red Flag

As the world races toward a clean energy future, the mining of copper— essential to electric vehicles and renewables—exposes a troubling trail of human rights abuses and environmental devastation.

The New Strategic Commodity

Once viewed simply as an industrial metal, copper has been rebranded a “strategic raw material” by the United Nations. According to the latest Global Trade Update from the UN Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), copper demand is expected to soar by 40% by 2040, driven by technologies like electric vehicles, wind turbines, and solar panels.

Meeting that demand, UNCTAD projects, will require 80 new copper mines and over $250 billion in new investment by the end of this decade. The stakes are high: failure to secure enough supply could delay global efforts to reach net-zero emissions.

Human Cost of the Copper Boom

While copper powers sustainability, the Business and Human Rights Resource Centre (BHRRC) has flagged it as the most problematic of eight “transition minerals”, responsible for 513 of 835 human rights abuse allegations tracked from 2010 to 2024.

These abuses include:

• Forced displacement of communities

• Attacks on environmental defenders

• Pollution of water sources

• Violations of Indigenous Peoples’ rights

Water, Waste, and Toxic Fallout

The environmental consequences of copper mining are especially acute in water-scarce regions. The BHRRC notes that over 50% of copper mines in high water stress zones have harmed local water access.

“COPPER IS NO LONGER just a commodity—it’s a strategic asset.”- Luz María de la

Mora, UNCTAD.

Case in point: In Zambia, one of the world’s leading producers, a tailings dam collapse in February 2024 near Kitwe discharged acidic effluents into the Kafue River watershed, killing livestock, crops, and fish—forcing a municipal water shutdown.

The Rights of the First to Be Affected

Alarmingly, 77% of copper-related allegations involve Indigenous rights violations. These often stem from neglecting Free, Prior and Informed Consent (FPIC) protocols—resulting in resistance from communities excluded from decision-making.

Community Perspective: “Rushing to extract more minerals without reducing consumption or showing true respect for our rights is not only reckless—it is unjust.”— Edson Krenak, Cultural Survival Brazil

Corporate Accountability: Missing in Action

Despite the documented abuses, the BHRRC found that less than half of implicated companies have formal human rights policies. A concentration of risk exists: just 20 companies are responsible for 60% of recorded violations since 2010.

Furthermore, the BHRRC recorded 157 attacks on human rights and environmental defenders, highlighting the risks faced by those who speak out.

Where Do We Go From Here?

Experts and human rights groups argue that without binding regulations, inclusive oversight, and community profit-sharing, the copper boom risks

replicating the same extractive injustices the energy transition seeks to replace.

“EXTRACTING minerals without rethinking consumption in wealthy countries will not solve the climate crisis. It will deepen inequality.”

— Annabella Rosemberg

Annabella Rosemberg, Climate Action Network: “A transition built on exploitative supply chains is unstable, unpredictable, and ultimately unsustainable.”

A UN panel in 2023 called for greater transparency, equitable investment practices, and stronger protections for both people and ecosystems.

At a Crossroads

The global drive to electrify economies is not slowing down. But the choice before policymakers, industries, and consumers is clear:

Pursue green energy at any cost—or commit to a just transition that values rights as much as resources.

SURGES ON CLEAN TECH

Steel Mining Industry Set to Hit $1.45 Trillion by 2035

The steel mining industry is undergoing a historic transformation, fueled by surging demand from construction, automotive, and infrastructure markets —and driven increasingly by sustainable technologies such as Electric Arc Furnaces (EAF) and Direct Reduced Iron (DRI).

The sector, valued at $875.7 billion in 2024, is forecast to swell to $1.45 trillion by 2035, marking a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.63%, according to BusinessWire. At the center of this expansion is the Asia-Pacific region, where rapid urbanization and industrial-

ization have made carbon steel the most demanded product.

China, India, and Southeast Asia remain the growth engines, bolstered by largescale infrastructure plans and automotive output. According to a report by

GlobeNewswire, specialty steel is also gaining traction, particularly in tech-intensive sectors.

EAF Steelmaking Gains Ground

Electric Arc Furnaces, which utilize scrap steel rather than iron ore, are increasingly replacing traditional blast furnaces due to their lower carbon footprint.

EAFs currently account for 28% of global steel production but are projected to rise to 41% by 2030, equivalent to 787 million tonnes, per data from Steel Hub. The technology’s scalability and eco-efficiency position it as a cornerstone of future steelmaking strategies.

While EAF adoption is accelerating in North America and Europe, challenges remain in China, where only 10% of steel came from EAFs in 2023—well short of the government’s 15% target for 2025. Limited scrap availability and entrenched blast furnace infrastructure continue to hold back adoption, according to Reuters.

DRI Market Expands with Green Steel Promise

Complementing EAFs, Direct Reduced Iron is gaining momentum as a cleaner feedstock alternative. The global DRI market is projected to reach $176.41 billion by 2034, growing at a robust CAGR of 9.04%, notes Precedence Research. Hydrogen-based DRI, still in its early stages, holds the promise of zero-carbon steel production—aligning closely

with European climate mandates and private sector ESG targets. Sweden is at the frontier of this shift, aiming to deliver the world’s first zero-emission steel by 2025.

HYBRIT, a joint venture between SSAB, LKAB, and Vattenfall, is using hydrogen instead of coal in its pilot plants—a milestone tracked closely by both competitors and regulators.

Regional Moves: UK, Sweden, China

Policy is playing a pivotal role in shaping steel mining’s trajectory. In the United Kingdom, British Steel plans to add over 180 new roles after receiving state support to transition its operations toward greener technologies. Meanwhile, China’s lag in EAF adoption could have global pricing and supply implications if overcapacity persists.

Europe continues to outpace others in decarbonization, with Sweden’s early-mover advantage likely to set a benchmark for low-emission steel certification and export value.

Long-Term Outlook: Cleaner, Faster, Global

The steel mining industry stands at an inflection point. The combined force of EAF and DRI technologies, regional decarbonization policies, and end-user sector growth paints a bullish picture. However, the speed and equity of the transition will depend on raw material availability, financing mechanisms, and the ability of emerging economies to retrofit or leapfrog old technologies.

As steel becomes the next battleground in the global race for carbon neutrality, companies investing early in low-emission production and circular resource flows are expected to capture long-term margins and regulatory favor.

Barrick Mining Sees 59% EPS Surge

Barrick Mining delivered a robust first-quarter performance, with earnings per share (EPS) up 59% year-on-year, reinforcing the miner’s long-term strategy centered around Tier 1 gold and copper production.

EPS for the period ending March 31 rose to $0.27 from $0.17 last year. Adjusted EPS increased 84% to $0.35, fueled by higher commodity prices, cost discipline, and strong execution. Barrick reported $1.2 billion in operating cash flow and $375 million in free cash flow, enabling a 5% net debt reduction.

Barrick Mining Delivers Strong Gold and Copper Volumes

Barrick produced 758,000 ounces of gold, at the top end of guidance, and 44,000 tonnes of copper, supported by cost improvements and optimized operations.

The average realized gold price rose 40% year-over-year to $2,898/oz, boosting margins despite downtime at Pueblo Viejo and scheduled maintenance at Nevada Gold Mines. These activities are expected to support increased production in the year’s second half.

Tier 1 Projects Signal Strategic Growth for Barrick

CEO Mark Bristow highlighted strategic progress at Reko Diq (Pakistan) and Lumwana (Zambia), where partnerships with Fluor and Hatch are in place. Owner teams are mobilized and long-lead procurement has begun.

These developments are expected to materially expand copper and gold output and contribute to a 30% organic increase in gold-equivalent ounces by 2030.

Barrick is advancing Pueblo Viejo’s rampup and tailings expansion while moving the Fourmile project in the U.S. to prefeasibility, with 16 rigs targeting new resources.

Barrick’s Exploration Pipeline Expands Across Continents

Aggressive drilling across Africa, the Americas, and Asia underpins Barrick’s efforts to grow its Tier 1 asset base. A new discovery in the Reko Diq licence area highlights the region’s strong geological potential. In Canada, exploration continues at multiple sites.

The company also sold its 50% stake in the Donlin project in Alaska for $1 billion, reallocating capital to higher-return assets. It is exiting non-core operations including Tongon (Côte d’Ivoire) and Hemlo (Canada).

Unlike rivals pursuing acquisitions, Barrick is focused on organic growth. “We’ve built a global mining company with the financial strength and technical depth to grow without diluting shareholders or raising debt,” said Bristow.

Barrick repurchased $143 million in shares and maintained its $0.10/share quarterly dividend, affirming its disciplined capital strategy. To reflect its diversified portfolio, the company rebranded as Barrick Mining Corporation and adopted the new NYSE ticker ‘B’.

mining minds Wanted reshaping

inside the global talent crisis

mineral processing

As clean energy targets tighten and geopolitical supply chains shift, the world’s demand for mineral processing professionals has exploded. From copper-rich Canada to the vanadium veins of Australia, engineers, analysts, and operators are suddenly the most sought-after resources of all.

Photo: A control room operator monitors AI-integrated mineral flow data as underground crews extract rare earths vital to green energy.

THE FUTURE OF

MINING

NEEDS MINDS, NOT JUST MACHINERY. In June 2025, over 1,200 mineral processing jobs remain open in North America alone. The sector isn’t just growingit’s transforming.

As of June 2025, the mineral processing job market is experiencing a significant upswing, driven by the global demand for critical minerals essential to the clean energy transition.

This surge is evident across various regions, including the United States, Australia, and parts of Africa, where investments in mining and processing infrastructure are creating a plethora of employment opportunities.

Global Landscape: A Surge in Demand

The global push towards renewable energy and electric vehicles has intensified the need for minerals like lithium, copper, and rare earth elements. In response, countries are ramping up their mining activities:

AUSTRALIA

The New South Wales government has identified 28 mine sites rich in critical minerals, aiming to rejuvenate these sites to support renewable technologies. This initiative is expected to generate thousands of regional jobs.

CANADA

Despite possessing vast mineral resources, Canadian mining firms are grappling with labor shortages, threatening their ability to meet the soaring demand for minerals used in technology and green energy.

UNITED STATES

The U.S. is facing a critical minerals crisis, exacerbated by high demand and over-reliance on imports. Significant investment in the mining workforce and smart policy is essential to secure supply chains vital to economic and national security.

"AS CLEAN ENERGY AMBITIONS soar, the real shortage isn't metals— it's minds. Across continents, mining is hunting for the talent to power a new industrial era."

Opportunities in the United States

In the U.S., the mineral processing sector is witnessing a boom:

Job Openings: Over 893 mineral processing positions are currently available, ranging from plant managers to chemical operators.

Engineering Roles: There are 258 openings for mineral processing engineers, with companies like McKinsey & Company and Hatch seeking specialists to lead projects in Denver, CO, and Tucson, AZ.

Florida Focus: In Florida, 56 mineral processing jobs are listed, including roles such as infrastructure managers and production operators.

Skill Shortages and Educational Initiatives

The rapid expansion of the mineral processing industry has highlighted a significant skills gap:

Australia's Challenge: The development of a global minerals hub in north-west Queensland is at risk due to a shortage of highly skilled workers, particularly in vanadium mining, essential for renewable energy storage.

Canada's Dilemma: Canadian mining firms are struggling to recruit skilled workers, which threatens their ability to meet the growing demand for minerals and metals used in technology and green energy.

U.S. Educational Efforts: To combat the critical minerals crisis, the U.S. is emphasizing the need for investment in mining workforce development and educational programs to reduce dependency on imports.

What is Mineral Processing in 2025?

Mineral processing is no longer just about crushing rocks. In 2025, it involves:

Advanced Flowsheet Design: Using AI and machine learning to create efficient processes that reduce waste and energy.

Hydrometallurgy Over Pyrome-

tallurgy: Chemical-based methods like solvent extraction and leaching are replacing older furnace-based processes to align with carbon neutrality targets.

Sensor-Based Sorting (SBS): Optical, X-ray, and laser systems now scan ore streams in real time to reject waste early and boost throughput.

Circularity and Reprocessing: A growing subset of jobs involve processing tailings—the leftover materials from past mining—for trace elements like scandium and cobalt.

A Job Market Redefined by Technology and Policy

Looking ahead to 2030, mineral processing jobs will split along three major vectors:

Automation and AI Integration: As companies automate everything from conveyor belts to flotation cells, new roles will center on process engineers with data analytics capabilities. Expect a rise in hybrid job titles like Metallurgical Data Analyst or AI Optimization Specialist.

Sustainability Roles: Carbon footprint reduction, wastewater recycling (like Stardust Power’s closed-loop systems in Oklahoma), and circular processing will demand environmental scientists

A Market In Transition From Boom

to Bottlenecks

In June 2025, the global mineral processing job market is booming—but not uniformly. Regions flush with resources and policy support are experiencing surging demand for engineers, technicians, and plant operators. The United States, Australia, and Canada are leading this charge, yet the nature of their growth and challenges diverges sharply:

Analyze and Suggest: Bridging the Workforce and Infrastructure Gaps - Key Challenges

Workforce Misalignment: Most job openings require experience in hydrometallurgy, automation, or environmental compliance—skills that new graduates lack and older workers may not have updated.

Regional Isolation: Many mineral processing plants are located in remote zones, which restricts workforce mobility and makes recruitment costly.

ESG Pressure: Stakeholders now expect environmentally and socially responsible processing. This adds layers of compliance, particularly around water usage, emissions, and community engagement.

Suggestions for Industry and Policymakers:

National Workforce Training Corps: Launch a multi-stakeholder “Critical Minerals Workforce Corps” akin to the Civilian Conservation Corps of the 1930s. Sponsored by federal grants, mining companies, and universities, this could fast-track training in mineral processing, environmental tech, and equipment maintenance.

Relocation Incentives: Governments and companies should co-fund relocation bonuses and family support packages to help skilled workers move to remote mining hubs.

Digital Upskilling: Companies should partner with online platforms to certify current employees in AI-integrated process control, predictive maintenance, and real-time mineral analysis tools.

Women and Indigenous Recruitment: Tapping underrepresented groups with dedicated pathways—especially in Australia and Canada—can relieve workforce shortages while meeting ESG goals.

and ESG compliance officers embedded in processing plants.

Global Geopolitical Shifts: The mineral supply chain is being reshored and diversified. New jobs will emerge in countries once considered peripheral, such as Namibia, Indonesia, and Greenland—driven by both Chinese

investments and Western decoupling efforts. The June 2025 mineral processing job market reflects a sector undergoing transformation—not just in volume but in the value and versatility of its workforce. Those willing to train across disciplines—mineralogy, automation, ESG—will shape the backbone of the next generation of mining.

Critical Minerals Boom Pushes WA Mining Workforce to 136,000

WA’s resources sector now employs nearly 136,000 workers—the highest number on record. With global demand for lithium, nickel, and rare earths surging, the state’s mining industry is riding a wave of strategic investment and clean energy momentum.

Mining by the Numbers

Demand for Critical Minerals Fuels Job Growth

Western Australia’s mining sector is undergoing rapid expansion, driven by rising international demand for low-emissions technology inputs.

According to new data from the Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety (DMIRS), the state’s resources industry employed 135,985 people in Q1 2025—an all-time high.

From lithium to rare earths, new and existing operations across the Pilbara, Goldfields, and Mid West are ramping up hiring. Companies such as Albemarle, IGO Ltd, and Lynas Rare Earths are aggressively expanding operations and workforce numbers.

“From iron ore to rare earths, WA mining jobs are growing across every corner of the state,” said Mines and Petroleum Minister David Michael.

FROM LITHIUM-RICH BASINS TO RARE EARTH

corridors, WA’s mineral map is redefining workforce demand—and setting global benchmarks in clean energy supply chains.

WA Resources Sector Anchors State Economy

Western Australia now accounts for more than 40% of the state’s gross product and nearly two-thirds of Australia’s total mining employment. While iron ore remains the state’s largest export, job creation is increasingly driven by battery-grade minerals.

WA’s mining roles are also diversifying. Engineers, environmental scientists, and automation technicians are in especially high demand, supporting both traditional operations and new tech-driven sites.

Remote operations centres, once rare, are now central hubs managing fleets and processes across vast regions. This technological shift is not only creating

new job categories but also attracting a younger, more digitally skilled workforce into the sector.

Skills, Training & Migration Reform Critical

To address growing labor shortages, the WA government is accelerating initiatives through its WA Jobs Plan, expanded TAFE training programs, and visa reform advocacy.

Industry leaders are also calling for better coordination between tertiary education and workforce needs. “It’s not just about jobs today—it’s about building a resilient, future-ready workforce,” said Rebecca Tomkinson, CEO of the Chamber of Minerals and Energy WA. The Minerals Council of Australia has echoed the

need for scalable training programs and improved regional workforce access, particularly in remote mining communities.

Global Demand, Local Opportunity

Western Australia’s workforce boom reflects a broader international shift. As governments and manufacturers race to decarbonize supply chains, reliable sources of critical minerals have become geopolitical assets.

WA’s abundance of battery inputs—coupled with its political stability and export infrastructure—has cemented the state as a preferred partner for the U.S., EU, and key Asian markets seeking long-term sourcing agreements.

Workforce Evolution in a Tech-Driven Industry

Today’s mining jobs are not what they were a decade ago. Automation, environmental compliance, and digital systems have reshaped job descriptions—from autonomous haulage operators to ESG data analysts.

With hundreds of mining projects integrating AI and carbon monitoring, WA’s resource sector is quietly becoming a training ground for the next generation of clean-tech labor.

Strategic Outlook for the Decade Ahead

Despite possible short-term volatility in commodity prices, analysts agree the long-term demand for critical minerals remains strong. As the global race to secure supply chains accelerates, Western Australia is emerging as a strategic resource and talent hub for clean energy transitions. “WA mining jobs aren’t just plentiful—they’re strategic,” said Minister Michael. “They’re powering both the state economy and the energy transition.”

GREENER, SMARTER, SCALABLE SOLUTIONS

Oxair Drives Tyre Sustainability with Nitrogen

Oxair Gas Systems, a leading manufacturer of advanced gas processing equipment, is revolutionising the tyre industry by providing onsite nitrogen generation solutions that not only improve tyre performance but also support sustainable recycling practices.

Nitrogen-filled tyres are renowned for their durability and consistent pressure maintenance, making them ideal for demanding sectors such as construction, mining, aerospace and professional motor racing. Their popularity is also growing among everyday motorists due to their enhanced safety and longevity.

Traditionally, tyre suppliers have relied on conventional nitrogen cylinders, facing challenges related to supply chain dependencies, transportation costs, and safety risks associated with manual handling. Oxair addresses these issues by offering onsite nitrogen generators,

ensuring a continuous and reliable gas supply.

Beyond tyre inflation, nitrogen plays a pivotal role in the recycling of end-oflife tyres. Cryogenic grinding, a process that utilises liquid nitrogen to embrittle rubber, enables the production of fine rubber powders.

This method facilitates the efficient separation of tyre materials, contributing to effective recycling and waste reduction. By integrating onsite nitrogen generation, tyre recycling facilities can enhance their operational efficiency and environmental sustainability.

David Cheeseman, Chief Engineer at Oxair, emphasised the dual benefits of their nitrogen solutions:

"At Oxair, we manufacture nitrogen plants that are not only cost-effective and low-maintenance but also instrumental in advancing sustainable practices within the tyre industry. Our systems support both optimal tyre performance and environmentally responsible recycling processes."

Oxair's nitrogen generators are designed to be efficient and compact, making them suitable for various settings, including tyre depots, motor racing teams, airlines, garages, mining, and construction sites.

These systems extract nitrogen directly from the atmosphere, providing an eco-friendly alternative to traditional cylinder deliveries and significantly reducing the associated carbon footprint.

By adopting Oxair's onsite nitrogen generation technology, companies can enhance safety, ensure a consistent gas supply, and promote environmental sustainability through improved tyre recycling processes.

Oxair is an ISO 9001 certified company specialising in the design and manufacture of packaged oxygen and nitrogen Pressure Swing Adsorption (PSA) systems. Serving a diverse range of industries, including mining, construction, water treatment, oil & gas, medical. food, chemical, and biotech.

TURNING WASTE TO WEALTH

Exterra Secures $20M to Scale Low-Carbon Mineral Solutions

In a bold step toward decarbonizing the global mining sector, Montréal-based Exterra Carbon Solutions has raised CAD $20 million in Series A funding to scale its breakthrough technology that transforms asbestos mine tailings into low-carbon critical minerals and permanent CO2 sequestration solutions.

The financing round was co-led by Clean Energy Ventures and BDC Capital, alongside strategic support from the Government of Quebec, Investissement Québec, MOL Switch, and Kinetics, a Karpowership-backed climate tech initiative.

The fresh capital brings Exterra’s total investment raised to CAD $32 million, positioning the company as a rising force in the circular mining economy.

“With this funding, we’ll accelerate the commercial deployment of our platform and create one of the shortest nickel supply chains for EVs in North America,” said Olivier Dufresne, CEO of Exterra.

Hub I: From Asbestos Legacy to Green Materials

At the core of Exterra’s scale-up strategy is Hub I, a world-first asbestos mine tailings (AMT) valorization plant set to begin construction in 2027 in Quebec.

Designed to process over 300,000 tonnes annually, Hub I will eliminate asbestos fibres, rehabilitate legacy mining sites, and produce carbon-neutral magnesium oxide, nickel concentrate, and amorphous silica for green construction.

Quebec’s low-carbon hydroelectric grid plays a central role in powering Exterra’s LOW™ and ROC™ processes—two patented technologies that together enable

both value-added mineral extraction and one-step CO₂ mineralization without separate carbon capture systems.

Critical Minerals, Circular Strategy

With more than 800 million tonnes of mine tailings available regionally, Exterra aims to develop one of the world’s shortest and most sustainable supply chains for battery-grade nickel and carbon-negative construction inputs.

Recent partnerships with BASF, Énergir, WSP, and Winsome Resources, alongside a carbon pre-purchase agreement with Frontier Climate, further validate the commercial and environmental promise of the platform. “Exterra represents the future of responsible resource utilization,” said Daniel Goldman, Co-Founder at Clean Energy Ventures. “It turns liabilities into assets—scalably and globally.”

As the mining industry faces rising pressure to clean up its act, Exterra’s model offers a rare trifecta: carbon drawdown, critical mineral supply, and waste remediation—all from a single feedstock.

If Hub I delivers on its promise, it may reshape not just Quebec’s mining landscape, but the global playbook for mine site rehabilitation and low-carbon mineral production.

U.S. PEACE TALKS GAIN TRACTION

Rwanda Eyes Congo’s Critical Minerals

The United States is spearheading a delicate diplomatic initiative between the Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda, with the goal of de-escalating a longsimmering regional conflict—and unlocking the economic potential of Congo’s vast mineral wealth through Rwandan processing.

Central to the talks is a proposal allowing Congolese exports of tin, tantalum, and tungsten (the 3Ts) to be legally processed in Rwanda. The plan is designed to encourage Western investment and enhance supply chain traceability, addressing ethical sourcing concerns while promoting development in both nations.

Rwanda’s Role in Mineral Supply Chains

Rwanda is already a key regional hub for refining minerals used in electronics, defense, and aerospace. However, its exports have long been criticized for sourcing materials from conflict zones in eastern Congo.

The proposed framework would establish a legal export route for Congolese 3Ts, enabling miners to utilize Rwanda’s infrastructure while ensuring traceability under OECD guidelines.

Analysts say the plan could attract Western buyers seeking to comply with regulations such as Section 1502 of the U.S. Dodd-Frank Act. “This is about building a trusted ecosystem for mineral trade that benefits both sides,” said a senior U.S. State Department official.

peatedly stated that Congo’s sovereignty is non-negotiable. “The minerals belong to the Congolese people. Any partnership must respect our territorial integrity,” said Congolese Foreign Minister Christophe Lutundula at a recent summit. While Rwanda denies backing M23 and claims defensive intent, international observers continue to document Rwandan incursions.

Industrial Promise, Political Risk

The stakes are high. Congo holds around 60% of global cobalt reserves and significant deposits of coltan and cassiter -

Congo’s Preconditions: Sovereignty First

Despite the potential economic upside, Kinshasa has made it clear that cooperation is contingent on Rwanda withdrawing its military presence, particularly from areas occupied by the M23 rebel group.

U.N. investigators have linked M23 to Kigali. President Félix Tshisekedi has re-

ite—essential to the energy transition and tech sectors. Yet decades of conflict and weak infrastructure have hindered economic growth. Rwanda, by contrast, has developed refining facilities and efficient export routes.

Washington sees the mineral corridor as a pragmatic path to peace. “This approach allows us to tie economic development to peace-building,” said an advisor at

the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation, which is reviewing financing for regional joint ventures.

However, critics caution that routing Congolese minerals through Rwanda could perpetuate exploitation unless strict enforcement ensures local benefit-sharing. Community inclusion and oversight will be key to legitimacy.

U.S.-brokered

talks could open a new mineral corridor between Congo and Rwanda—linking peace, sovereignty, and the global race for ethically sourced critical minerals.

Investor Interest—and Hesitation

Global investors are watching closely. Companies from Germany, Canada, and South Korea are reportedly interested in Rwanda’s processing infrastructure—if input legality is ensured.

The Biden administration considers African minerals a strategic asset in reducing reliance on Chinese supply chains. But uncertainty persists. “No one is putting capital into eastern Congo with active conflict zones. A clear diplomatic roadmap is essential,” said an executive at a European metals trading firm.

The U.S.-led talks offer a rare opening to reset one of Africa’s deepest flashpoints. If successful, Rwanda could emerge as a regional processing leader while Congo gains a new, value-added revenue stream. Yet without real de-escalation, the promise of legal Rwandan processing may remain just that—a promise.

Public Backlash Slows EU Minerals Plans

The European Union’s ambitions to secure its own supply of critical minerals face a less visible but potent threat: poor public perception. At the EIT RawMaterials Summit in Brussels, top officials and executives warned that negative societal views on mining are obstructing both policy implementation and private investment.

Meeting demand for critical minerals requires a shift in public perception and more education,” said Bernd Schäfer, CEO of EIT RawMaterials, in his keynote at the EU Raw Materials Summit, held May 13–15. The event brought together leaders from government, academia, and mining to assess Europe’s efforts to reduce foreign mineral dependence.

Public Trust Lags Behind Tobacco

Paul Gait, head of strategy at Anglo American, noted that mining in Europe ranks lower in public perception than the tobacco industry. “Mining should be seen as essential as agriculture,” Gait argued, noting its role in clean tech supply chains for lithium, cobalt, and rare earths.

CRMA Faces Headwinds

The EU’s Critical Raw Materials Act (CRMA), passed in 2023, has hit obstacles. Krzysztof Galos, Undersecretary at Poland’s Ministry of Climate and Environment, said poor public awareness now presents a greater challenge than permitting or financing.

“We must change mindsets—from local resistance to regional support,” Galos said, emphasizing educational outreach beginning in primary school. His call for long-term investment in public understanding echoed throughout the summit.

Education as a Strategy

EIT RawMaterials is addressing perception gaps through its Raw Materials Academy and Higher Education Initiative, aiming to reach 150,000 students by 2027. “Without public support, even the best policies will fail,” Schäfer warned.

Local Projects Shift Perception

Savannah Resources, operator of the Barroso lithium project in Portugal, has tackled opposition by creating local jobs and partnerships. “People respond to impact, not data,” said CEO Emanuel Proença. As a CRMA strategic project, Barroso’s progress shows how inclusive, transparent practices can shift opinion.

Geopolitics Meets Public Sentiment

Europe has signed 14 critical mineral partnerships globally—from Chile to Kazakhstan—but internal resistance weakens their effectiveness.

“There’s an urgent need to align national strategy with local sentiment,” said one delegate. Europe’s climate ambitions remain strong, but unless mining’s image changes, its material supply chain won’t keep up.

Brussels’ message is clear: fixing minerals supply starts with fixing public perception.

The

Bedrock of Tomorrow

Global Iron Ore’s Pivot Year

Forging the Future June 2025 Report

As iron ore markets realign across continents, 2025 is shaping up as a defining year. From Guinea’s long-awaited Simandou exports to Australia’s green iron pilot lines, nations and companies are racing to meet evolving demand from decarbonized steelmakers. While global prices soften, long-term strategies are heating up—centered on cleaner processing, resilient infrastructure, and geopolitical recalibration.

By Skillings Mining Review Staff

June 2025 marks a pivotal moment in the iron ore industry, with major projects reaching critical development stages from West Africa to Western Australia.

Global demand is stabilizing, but geopolitical uncertainty, infrastructure bottlenecks, and environmental scrutiny continue to shape both production strategies and investor confidence.

This report synthesizes key project updates, regulatory shifts, and market dynamics, with a focus on project delivery timelines and capacity expansion.

KEY REGIONAL PROJECT DEVELOPMENTS

Simandou

Guinea

Africa’s Iron Crown Awakens

Status: Rail and port construction accelerating; first ore exports expected in late 2025.

Capacity: Estimated at 100 million tonnes annually.

Operators: Winning Consortium Simandou (WCS), Rio Tinto–Chinalco JV.

Key Trend: China’s dominance via infrastructure financing and rail concessions—positioning Guinea as a high-grade supplier alternative to Australia and Brazil.

Insight: Simandou’s revival underscores Beijing’s strategy to bypass

traditional iron ore giants. But local unrest and fragile political infrastructure pose operational risks.

Grand Zambi Cameroon

Central Africa’s Emerging Player

Status: First exports scheduled June 2025.

Operator: G-Stones Resources.

Impact: 1,000+ jobs, new export terminal on the Atlantic.

Grade: Mid-grade hematite, targeting India and European blast furnaces.

Contrast: While Simandou is geopolitically sensitive, Grand Zambi enjoys a less fraught regional alignment, but lags in technical capacity and regulatory maturity.

Western Australia

The World's Iron Ore Powerhouse Evolves

Fenix Resources

Beebyn-W11 Project

Status: Mining began Q2 2025.

Volume: 1.5 Mtpa; focus on cost discipline (A$77.5/wmt).

Contractor: MACA Limited.

Fortescue - Green Iron Pilot

Status: Commissioning Christmas Creek pilot.

Goal: Shift from hematite export to value-added green iron production.

Trend Watch: Australian majors are investing in decarbonized processing to preserve long-term market share as buyers pivot to ESG-compliant steel inputs.

Hancock Prospecting

McPhee Creek

Status: Final environmental approval granted.

Output: 10 Mtpa for 15 years.

Note: One of few green-lit projects amid regulatory tightening post-Pilbara expansion boom.

Canada

Strategic Supply Chain

Anchoring

Champion Iron

Bloom Lake Phase II

Status: Operational ramp-up underway.

Output: 15 Mtpa of 66% Fe concentrate.

Target: Europe & North America (low-emission steelmakers). Note: Supported by Québec's hydro- powered grid and federal green funding.

Nippon Steel JV

Goal: Secure long-term Canadian supply chain to mitigate over-reliance on Australian ore.

Investment: ¥16.2 billion combined (subject to feasibility).

U.S. Note: Domestic iron ore remains hampered by permitting delays and legacy cost structures, though Minnesota’s taconite output has stabilized.

India

Domestic Production Push

Lloyds Metals

Surjagarh Expansion

Status: Awaiting final environmental clearance.

Scale-Up: From 10 to 25 Mtpa— would become India’s largest iron ore mine.

Policy Backing: Full alignment with Modi’s “Iron for Infrastructure” drive.

Challenge: Local resistance and Maoist insurgency in central India threaten security and continuity.

Photo: Simandou’s mountain range, rail project, or Western Australian processing plant

Market Analysis & Price Forecast

Value (June 2025) YoY

Price Outlook: Downward pressure likely into late 2025 as Simandou and Cameroon exports hit the water, easing supply tightness.

Key Drivers

China: Replacing older blast furnaces, maintaining demand but avoiding price spikes.

EU & U.S.: Strong push for green steel requires higher-grade inputs.

Shipping Costs: Up 11% YoY due to Red Sea disruptions and port congestion in West Africa.

Looking Ahead: Second Half of 2025

• Expect commissioning of Simandou Phase I and Grand Zambi by Q4.

• Fortescue’s pilot plant could redefine ore value proposition for Australian hematite.

• Increased scrutiny on Indian and Brazilian tailings management post-rainy season.

• Price stabilization likely between $90–$105/tonne range unless China slows unexpectedly.

Strategic Realignment & Shifting Trade Flows

The convergence of regional diversification and decarbonization mandates is redrawing the iron ore trade map.

China's accelerated investment in West African infrastructure marks a deliberate pivot to reduce reliance on traditional Australian and Brazilian suppliers, while simultaneously expanding influence across emerging markets. In contrast, Western buyers—particularly in Europe and North America—are doubling down

on ESG-compliant sources, creating bifurcated demand tracks: one driven by geopolitical leverage, the other by green steel certification.

This dual-track trade flow will increasingly determine which producers attract stable contracts and premium pricing.

Conclusion

Iron ore’s future in June 2025 is being forged on multiple fronts: African infrastructure, ESG mandates, Australian innovation, and mid-tier market consoli-

dation. While short-term oversupply risks linger, the long-term opportunity lies in cleaner, higher-quality iron value chains.

A key battleground emerging in 2025 is not just raw ore production, but midstream processing innovation.

Projects like Fortescue’s Green Iron pilot and Champion Iron’s hydro-powered concentrate lines show how processing upgrades can deliver value beyond the mine gate.

As environmental compliance becomes non-negotiable, producers with integrated logistics, clean energy inputs, and low-impurity ore are better positioned to meet the rising threshold for ESG alignment.

Suggestion: Investors and operators alike should watch green iron and integrated logistics projects, which will define competitive advantage through 2030.

“AS DEMAND FOR LOW-CARBON STEEL intensifies, the race to reshape global iron ore supply is underway—from Guinea’s deep rock reserves to Australia’s green-tech pilot lines. 2025 isn’t just a turning point—it’s a test of who controls the future of iron.”

ESG Non-Compliance

Risks & Strategic Themes

Green steel demand penalizing low-grade, high-emission operations

Geopolitical Volatility Guinea, Cameroon, and Red Sea shipping lanes at risk Moderate

China Overreach

Heavy Chinese control in new assets could provoke trade retaliation

Low to Moderate

Strategic Shift: Majors like Fortescue and ArcelorMittal are moving into processing-led growth, aiming to vertically integrate and produce low-carbon feedstocks.

GLOBAL RESOURCE RACE

CPEC Supercharges Pakistan’s Mining Sector

The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) is reshaping Pakistan’s mining sector, attracting global investors and unlocking vast mineral reserves.

Despite trillions in estimated copper, gold, lithium, and rare earths, the sector remains underdeveloped.

CPEC’s $62 billion infrastructure initiative—funded by China—has improved transport, energy, and logistics, opening mineral-rich regions like Balochistan and Gilgit-Baltistan.

“CPEC de-risks mining logistics,” said consultant Ali Raza. Roads and power lines now support extractive operations, making remote zones investment-ready.

CPEC IS DRIVING A mining revival in Pakistan, combining infrastructure upgrades, regulatory reforms, and foreign investment to position the country as a key global mineral supplier.

Foreign direct investment (FDI) in mining is rising. Firms from Australia, Canada, and Saudi Arabia are exploring entry, while China deepens ties via state-backed ventures. Projects like Saindak and Reko Diq embody the CPEC model: infrastructure first, extraction second.

Legal reforms are also underway—digitized licensing, clear royalties, and ESG standards aim to improve investor confidence. Amendments to the Mines Act were passed to streamline approvals. Security remains a concern. Militancy in Balochistan threatens projects, but government response includes a dedicated CPEC Security Division.

CPEC positions Pakistan as a global critical mineral hub. Gulf countries are exploring links to the Gwadar port for streamlined exports. Public-private CPEC ventures now aim for local beneficiation and value addition. With reforms and security, CPEC could redefine Pakistan’s mining economy globally.

Harmony Gold Makes $1B Copper Bet

Harmony Gold, South Africa’s largest gold producer, is entering the copper market with a $1.03 billion acquisition of Mac Copper Ltd, an Australian miner with assets in Western Australia and Papua New Guinea.

The all-cash deal reflects Harmony’s diversification strategy amid surging global copper demand driven by electrification and clean energy trends. This marks Harmony’s biggest strategic shift in over a decade. Mac Copper’s advanced-stage projects offer near-term production potential, hedging against gold price volatility and expanding Harmony into base metals. Copper futures nearing $10,000 per ton underscore the sector’s appeal.

“This transaction provides immediate scale and geographic diversity,” said CEO Peter Steenkamp. Funded by cash and debt, the acquisition leaves Harmony’s balance sheet conservatively geared. Mac Copper shareholders will receive a 32% premium, reflecting strong asset fundamentals.

Mac Copper’s Mt. Juno (Australia) and Waria Valley (Papua New Guinea) projects exceed 3 million tons of copper equivalent. Harmony cited low sovereign risk and high upside. Mac Copper’s team will stay through integration. The deal adds to $65 billion in 2024 mining M&A, with copper and lithium dominating. It’s expected to close in Q3 2025. Amid South Africa’s challenges, Harmony’s move adds global reach and future-proofs its portfolio.

Solaris Secures $200M from Royal Gold

Solaris signs $200M financing deal with Royal Gold to advance its Warintza project in Ecuador, including gold stream and NSR royalty.

The structure of the agreement includes both a gold stream and a net smelter return (NSR) royalty, aimed at providing strategic capital while maintaining Solaris’ operational and commercial flexibility. The funding will fully cover activities required to reach a final investment decision and will repay existing senior secured debt with Orion Mine Finance.

Royal Gold will disburse the $200 million in three tranches. The initial $100 million is payable at closing. A second $50 million follows the publication of the pre-feasibility study (PFS) and technical approval of the environmental impact assessment, both expected in 2025. The final $50 million tranche will be paid on the first anniversary of closing.

“This transaction is a clear endorsement of the potential scale, geological qualities and stage of development of Warintza,” said Matthew Rowlinson, president and CEO of Solaris. “It is also a reflection of the strong investor confidence in Ecuador as a mining jurisdiction."

The Warintza project, discovered in 2000 and located in southeastern Ecuador, is one of the only globally significant, nearterm copper projects not controlled by a major mining company. Measured and indicated resources stand at 1.08 billion tonnes at 0.48% CuEq, while inferred resources total 3.14 billion tonnes at 0.27% CuEq.

Five-Year Strategy Aims to Position Nation as Regional Powerhouse

Egypt is rewriting the rules of its mineral economy. With a sweeping five-year plan, the nation sets its sights on transforming from a resource-rich state into a global mining hub—driven by reform, innovation, and strategic geography.

From Raw Riches to Industrial Power

In a bold move to reshape its economic trajectory, Egypt has launched a transformative five-year mining strategy led by the Ministry of Petroleum and Mineral Resources. The goal? To elevate mining’s contribution to GDP from under 1% today to between 5% and 6% by 2030.

Spearheaded by newly appointed Minister Karim Badawi, the initiative reflects Egypt’s intent to build a vertically integrated, export-driven mining ecosystem. “Our goal is to maximize the value of Egypt’s natural resources through local production and global export,” Badawi declared during a recent press briefing.

This shift is not just economic—it’s structural. The plan envisions a full-scale overhaul of governance, investment protocols, and value chain integration across the mining industry.

Modernizing the Engine: EMRA 2.0

At the heart of Egypt’s mining transformation is a dramatic restructuring of the Egyptian Mineral Resources Authority (EMRA). Previously criticized for inefficiency and bureaucracy, EMRA is being reimagined as a commercially-oriented, investor-friendly body.

Badawi emphasized the importance of transparency and digital reform. “Modernizing subsoil management is key. It will enable us to unleash the full potential of our mineral wealth,” he said.

Egypt’s Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources, Tarek El Molla, unveils the government’s five-year strategic plan to transform the country into a regional mining powerhouse, during a press briefing in Cairo, May 2025.

Highlights

9 Egypt targets 5–6% GDP contribution from mining by 2030

9 EMRA to be restructured for global competitiveness

9 New exploration deals signed with Canada and Australia

9 Strategy includes logistics upgrades and local workforce development

9 Positioned as MENA’s critical minerals gateway

This reform aligns with Egypt’s wider economic strategy of liberalization and institutional efficiency—echoing frameworks seen in top-tier mining jurisdictions globally.

Strategic Geography: A Competitive Edge

Egypt’s unique location is proving to be a vital asset. Straddling Africa, the Middle East, and Europe, and flanked by the Red Sea and the Mediterranean, the country offers unmatched logistical access.

“We have the ports. We have the railways. We have the energy. Now, we are building the systems,” said Badawi, referring to Egypt’s growing capacity to serve as a regional export and refining hub.

The government is also integrating energy strategies with mineral policy, ensuring that production clusters have reliable, sustainable power access.

Global Demand, Local Opportunity

Egypt’s mining push comes at a moment of global urgency. As the world scrambles

Pillars of the Five-Year Plan

Egypt’s strategy is underpinned by a structured roadmap with five key pillars:

1. Advanced Geological Surveys: A comprehensive expansion of digital mapping and subsurface data collection.

2. Fast-Track Exploration: Streamlined licensing for critical minerals like copper, rare earths, and phosphates.

3. Industrial Mining Clusters: Dedicated zones to promote downstream processing and manufacturing.

4. Talent Development: Intensive training to localize mining expertise and generate skilled jobs.

5. Logistics Overhaul: Upgraded port, rail, and road networks to enable rapid exports.

Initial partnerships with Australian and Canadian firms have already kicked off, with several exploration agreements inked in early 2025.

to secure critical minerals for clean energy technologies, countries with untapped reserves are gaining newfound relevance.

With copper, rare earth elements, phosphates, and gold among its assets, Egypt is well-positioned to capture a slice of the rising demand. The World Bank and

African Development Bank have both flagged Egypt as one of the top mining prospects in MENA.

“There’s momentum now,” said Badawi. “We must capitalize on it while ensuring that environmental and social standards are upheld.”

BIGGEST RENEWABLE ENERGY INVESTMENT SINCE THE 1950S

Rio Tinto Commits

$1.8B to Hydropower

Rio Tinto Isle-Maligne investment in Quebec is now the company’s most significant hydroelectric commitment in over 70 years. The Anglo-Australian miner will inject C$1.8 billion (US$1.2 billion) into modernising its Isle-Maligne power plant, a key pillar of its low-carbon aluminium operations in Saguenay–LacSaint-Jean.

The long-awaited overhaul reinforces Rio Tinto’s commitment to renewable energy and sustainable industrial strategy. Once complete in 2032, the facility will deliver enhanced operational safety, efficiency, and renewable power reliability across its Canadian smelters and casting operations.

Strategic Investment in Supply Chain

Built in 1925 and operational since 1926, Isle-Maligne was North America’s first power plant built for aluminium production. Now, nearly a century later, Rio Tinto’s Quebec hydroelectric modernisation ensures that the facility continues to anchor the region’s industrial identity.

The project involves:

• Replacing eight turbine-alternator groups

• Rehabilitating hydraulic passages and water intakes

• Constructing a northern extension and mechanical workshop

• Modernising electrical and mechanical equipment

• Modifying the spillway for winter reliability

At peak, the site will support over 300 jobs, providing local employment opportunities and boosting regional economic development in Quebec.

The plant will continue powering Rio Tinto’s low-carbon aluminium production, key to meeting the rising demand for sustainable materials from customers across Canada and the U.S.

Long-Term Competitiveness and Operational Resilience

Sébastien Ross, managing director of Rio Tinto Aluminium Atlantic Operations, emphasized the project’s alignment with long-term industrial strategy:

“This major investment to modernise our facilities will ensure the long-term future and competitiveness of our low carbon aluminium production in Quebec for decades to come for our Canadian and American customers.”

Ross noted that the Isle-Maligne plant has played a strategic role in powering Rio Tinto’s operations for a century, relying on generations of employee expertise and regional partnerships.

The project represents Rio Tinto’s largest single hydro investment since the 1950s, reflecting the increasing importance of renewable self-generation in decarbonizing heavy industry.

Supporting Prior Commitments and Carbon Strategy

The $1.8 billion modernisation builds on previously announced projects worth C$284 million (US$183 million). These include:

• Refurbishment of butterfly valves

• Upgrades to two additional turbine-alternator groups

Together, these initiatives underscore Rio Tinto’s focus on infrastructure resilience and carbon competitiveness.

The miner has committed to reducing its global emissions footprint and scaling up in-house renewable energy capacity, particularly in aluminium—a sector under scrutiny for its traditionally high emissions.

A Century-Old Powerhouse Readies for a Low-Carbon Future

The Rio Tinto Isle-Maligne investment marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of industrial hydropower in North America.

As demand for low carbon aluminium accelerates, the modernisation ensures that Quebec remains a global leader in green metals manufacturing.

Rio Tinto’s strategic bet on hydropower not only protects regional jobs and assets—it also reinforces the company’s positioning as a climate-aligned supplier in a market reshaped by energy transition.

Solutions Focused on Adding Value

Innovative Comminution Solutions

Performance that Stands the Test of Time

At ME Elecmetal, we offer more than just mill liners. Our services encompass a complete package that integrates innovation, comprehensive support, crafted designs, and essential tools to provide a fully customized comminution solution tailored to your unique requirements. We prioritize close collaboration with our customers, focusing on establishing mutual goals and delivering prompt, effective responses. With over a century of experience and the latest technologies, our objectives are to continuously improve procesess, prolong the lifespan of wear components, reduce operational risks, and ultimately boost the

Mining Info you don’t have to Dig for...

SUBSCRIBE NOW!

APRIL 2025 CRUDE STEEL PRODUCTION

World crude steel production for the 69 countries reporting to the World Steel Association (worldsteel) was 155.7 million tonnes (Mt) in April 2025, a 0.3% decrease compared to April 2024.

Africa produced 1.9 Mt in April 2025, up 6.3% on April 2024. Asia and Oceania produced 115.0 Mt, up 0.1%. The EU (27) produced 11.1 Mt, down 2.6%. Europe, Other produced 3.4 Mt, down 0.5%. The Middle East produced 5.2 Mt, up 2.2%. North America produced 9.0 Mt, up 0.2%. Russia & other CIS + Ukraine produced 6.9 Mt, down 4.4%. South America produced 3.3 Mt, down 2.4%. The 69 countries included in this table accounted for approximately 98% of total world crude steel production in 2024. Regions and countries covered by the table: Africa, Asia and Oceania, European Union (27), Europe,other, Middle East, North America, Russia & other CIS + Ukraine, South America.

Top 10 steel-producing countries

China produced 86.0 Mt in April 2025, the same as in April 2024. India produced 12.9 Mt, up 5.6%. Japan produced 6.6 Mt, down 6.4%. The United States produced 6.6 Mt, down 0.3%. Russia is

estimated to have produced 5.8 Mt, down 5.1%. South Korea produced 5.0 Mt, down 2.5%. Türkiye produced 3.0 Mt, up 7.0%. Germany produced 3.0 Mt, down 10.1%. Brazil produced 2.6 Mt, down 3.1%. Iran produced 3.3 Mt, up 4.6%.

Table 2. Top 10 steel-producing countries

The 69 countries included in this table accounted for approximately 98% of total world crude steel production in 2024.e:Africa: Egypt, Libya, South Africa, Tunisia Asia and Oceania: Australia, China, India, Japan, Mongolia, New Zealand, Pakistan, South Korea, Taiwan (China), Thailand, Viet Nam,European Union (27),Europe, Other: Macedonia, Norway, Serbia, Türkiye, United Kingdom,Middle East: Iran, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates,North America: Canada, Cuba, El Salvador, Guatemala, Mexico, United States,Russia & other CIS + Ukraine: Belarus, Kazakhstan, Russia, Ukraine,South America: Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Paraguay, Peru, Uruguay, Venezuela

Table 1. Crude steel production by region

2024 GLOBAL CRUDE STEEL PRODUCTION TOTALS

Source – World Steel Association

e – annual figure estimated using partial data or non-worldsteel resources. * The world total production figure in this table includes estimates of other countries that only report annually.

worldsteel welcomes new members

The Board of Members of the World Steel Association (worldsteel) has today welcomed the following steel producers as regular members:

• AL-ITTEFAQ Steel Products Company (Saudi Arabia), represented by Sharjeel AZHAR

• Daehan Steel Co., LTD (South Korea), represented by Kyung-Baek LEE

• Diaco S.A. (Colombia), represented by Mauro DE CASTRO

• SteelAsia Manufacturing Corporation (Philippines), represented by Sean Andre SY

• VAS Group Nghi Son Joint Stock Company (Vietnam), represented by Bao Khanh NGUYEN

The World Steel Association (worldsteel) is one of the largest and most dynamic industry associations in the world, with members in every major steel-producing country. worldsteel represents steel producers, national and regional steel industry associations, and steel research institutes. Members represent around 85% of global steel production.