Selling zinc ore and concentrate involves several steps, from finding buyers to negotiating contracts and arranging logistics. Here’s a structured guide to help you navigate the process:
1. Understand Your Product
– Zinc Ore: Raw material extracted from mines, typically containing 5-15% zinc.
– Zinc Concentrate: Processed ore (via flotation) with higher zinc content (40-60%), along with impurities like lead, iron, and sulfur.
Buyers will want details such as:
– Zinc content (% Zn)
– Impurities (Pb, Fe, Cd, As, SiO₂, etc.)
– Moisture content
– Particle size distribution
– Origin of the material
2. Find Buyers
Potential buyers include:
– Smelters & Refineries: Companies that process concentrates into refined zinc metal.
– Trading Companies: Intermediaries that buy and resell ores/concentrates.
– Industrial Consumers: Manufacturers needing zinc for galvanizing or alloys.
Where to Find Buyers:
– Online platforms (Alibaba, TradeKey, MetalBulletin)
– Industry directories (ILZSG, CRU Group)
– Trade shows (MMEC, PDAC)
– Direct outreach to smelters (e.g., Korea Zinc, Nyrstar, Glencore)
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3. Pricing & Contracts
Zinc concentrate is usually sold on a TC/RC (Treatment Charge/Refining Charge) basis:
– Smelters pay you based on LME zinc prices minus processing fees.
– Current benchmark TC/RC rates are negotiated annually (check MetalBulletin or Fastmarkets).
Example:
If LME Zinc = $2,500/ton and TC = $200/ton → You receive (LME price × Zn%) – TC.
For raw ore, pricing depends on market demand and quality.
4. Logistics & Export Requirements
– Ensure proper packaging (bulk bags or containers).
– Arrange shipping (FOB or CIF terms).
– Comply with export regulations (customs duties, certifications like SGS inspection).
5. Legal & Quality Assurance
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