Zijin Mining is ramping up its global expansion with plans to significantly increase copper, gold, and lithium production over the next five years. The China-based company, with a market capitalization of approximately $60 billion, aims to produce 1.5 million tons of copper and 3.2 million ounces of gold annually by 2028.
At the 2025 Prospectors & Developers Association of Canada (PDAC) conference, Zijin Deputy President Shaoyang Shen credited the company’s growth to aggressive acquisitions, technological advancements, and a commitment to sustainability. Zijin plans to source over 30% of its energy from renewables by 2030 as part of its sustainability initiatives.
Zijin has been acquiring mining assets worldwide, with recent investments in Africa, the Americas, and Europe. The company recently purchased Newmont’s Akyem gold mine in Ghana for $1 billion, contributing to its goal of producing 3.2 million ounces of gold by 2028, reflecting an annual growth rate of 7–8%. Meanwhile, Zijin’s copper revenue has surpassed gold, highlighting shifting market dynamics.
The company is also expanding into lithium production, a key metal for the electric vehicle industry. Zijin expects to produce 40,000 tons of lithium carbonate equivalent in 2025, positioning itself as a major supplier in the battery metals sector.
With operations across multiple jurisdictions, Zijin has built a diversified metals portfolio to navigate market volatility. While industrial metals like copper and zinc are influenced by macroeconomic trends, gold serves as a safe-haven asset during periods of economic uncertainty. This approach ensures resilience in fluctuating global markets.
Zijin’s global expansion comes amid heightened geopolitical tensions. Shen emphasized the need for international cooperation in mining, noting that some resource-rich countries lack the capital or technological expertise for large-scale development. He highlighted Canada’s role in setting industry standards and facilitating global transactions.
While Zijin is currently listed on the Shanghai and Hong Kong stock exchanges, Shen did not rule out the possibility of an international listing in markets such as Canada, the U.S., or London in the future.
