Zijin Mining Group to Launch Lithium Production in Congo by Early 2026
Zijin Mining Group plans to begin lithium production in the Democratic Republic of Congo at the Manono project in early 2026, despite ongoing claims from AVZ Minerals. This project is notable for being the first lithium mine in Congo, strategically catering to the anticipated demand from the growing new energy vehicle and energy storage markets. Zijin’s operations reflect a broader trend of Chinese investment in African resources amid fluctuating lithium prices.
Zijin Mining Group, a prominent Chinese mining corporation, is poised to commence lithium production in the Democratic Republic of Congo in early 2026. This undertaking will be based at the Manono project, which is recognized as one of the world’s largest lithium deposits. Despite ongoing claims by Australia’s AVZ Minerals, which has initiated arbitration against Zijin and the Congolese government for an exploration license, Zijin’s activities are accelerating in this region.
The Manono project is anticipated to begin operations in the first quarter of 2026, positioning it as the inaugural lithium mine in the Congo—an area that is already the second-largest global producer of copper and the foremost supplier of cobalt. Notably, Chinese enterprises, including Zijin, are increasingly investing in lithium sources across Africa, from Mali to Zimbabwe, despite witnessing a significant decline in lithium prices from their peak in 2022.
Zijin aims to secure a steady supply of lithium to support its domestic refineries, anticipating a surge in demand driven by the burgeoning new energy vehicle and energy storage sectors. The company acknowledged a temporary oversupply in the market; however, they foresee sustainable long-term demand for lithium amid growing industrial needs. Zijin’s other lithium mining projects are located in China and Argentina, further reinforcing its strategic position within the global mining landscape. This venture is being developed in collaboration with the Congolese state, and Zijin was granted a comprehensive mining license just four months ago. The Manono asset bears a considerable size, with an average lithium oxide grade of 1.51 percent, according to Zijin representatives.
The Democratic Republic of Congo is rapidly emerging as a critical player in the global lithium market, partly due to its vast mineral deposits, including cobalt, copper, and lithium. As nations and industries transition towards sustainable energy solutions, the demand for lithium has escalated, prompting significant investments in mining operations, particularly from Chinese companies. The Manono project represents a strategic move by Zijin Mining Group to secure key resources in a region rich with potential. The ongoing arbitration involving AVZ Minerals highlights the complexities of mineral rights and competition in resource-rich areas.
The initiation of lithium production by Zijin Mining Group in the Democratic Republic of Congo’s Manono project marks a significant advancement in the global lithium market. This development underscores the strategic investments being made by Chinese firms in Africa, despite market fluctuations. The potential for sustained demand from newer energy sectors demonstrates the continuing importance of lithium as both a commodity and a strategic resource for future energy solutions. As the mining operations initiate, the implications for both local and global industries will be noteworthy.
Original Source: www.scmp.com
