The global zinc market is undergoing a significant transformation. As rising zinc prices drive China, the world’s largest zinc producer, to ramp up exports, a clear divergence between global and domestic market dynamics is emerging. This shift is reshaping the non-ferrous metals industry and fueling demand for advanced production equipment. This article explores the factors behind the price surge, its implications for the global market, and how Jiangsu New Hongda Group (NHD), a leader in chemical and mining equipment, is positioned to meet the industry’s evolving needs with specialized solutions.

Understanding the Zinc Price Rally

This part explores the main reasons behind recent zinc market changes.

Factors Driving the Price Surge

LME zinc prices have jumped since April 2025, showing tight global supply. Since April 2025, zinc prices on the London Metal Exchange (LME) have risen sharply. Spot prices have overtaken future prices, creating a rare situation called backwardation. This means supply is tight right now. In contrast, Shanghai prices stay low because of too much zinc and weak demand, mainly due to China’s struggling property market. Zinc is key for galvanizing steel used in construction. This price gap has opened a profitable chance for Chinese smelters to export, especially to Southeast Asia, where buyers want affordable zinc.

Historical Context and Current Trends

Historical zinc export trends offer valuable context for today’s market dynamics. In 2022, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine spiked energy costs, forcing European smelters to shut down and tightening global zinc supply, which prompted China to significantly increase exports. A similar scenario is unfolding now, with reduced global smelter capacity and LME inventories at their lowest in years driving zinc prices higher. Producing over half the world’s zinc—approximately 4.5 million tons in 2023—China’s plans to export up to 5,000 tons monthly are poised to shape global price stability, though weaker overseas demand may cap this volume. These shifts not only underscore China’s pivotal role in the zinc market but also highlight growing demand for advanced production equipment to meet evolving industry needs.

Industry Signals from China’s Export Strategy

China’s export moves show its key role in the global zinc market.

Strategic Implications for Global Markets

China’s exports focus on securing supply rather than quick profits. By increasing zinc exports, China uses its huge production power to ease global shortages. This could calm the LME price spike. It fits with Beijing’s goal of ensuring resource availability. State-linked smelters aim to keep their market share, even with extra zinc at home due to a slow construction sector. This move may steady prices for global buyers. It also shows Chinese producers need to improve efficiency to compete in a world market that cares more about sustainability and low costs.

Opportunities in Non-Ferrous Metals

Zinc exports create new possibilities in the non-ferrous metals field. Export growth pushes the need for better zinc processing to meet tough global quality and green standards. This affects other metals like alumina and nickel, which face similar challenges. There’s a rising demand for equipment like filters, mixers, and gas-cleaning equipment. These help producers boost output, cut waste, and follow rules. Firms like NHD, with skills in these areas, are ready to seize these chances by offering custom solutions.

Equipment Demands in Zinc Production

Special equipment are vital for growing zinc output effectively.

Critical Role of Specialized Machinery

Modern equipment improve efficiency in zinc smelting and processing. Zinc production, especially using wet methods with sulfuric acid, needs strong equipment for separating solids from liquids, handling slurry, and managing waste. As Chinese smelters gear up for more exports, they need high-capacity Filter Series and Agitator & Thickener Series. These equipment boost production quality and volume. They’re also key for separating zinc from ore slurries, handling phosphogypsum waste, and meeting strict global environmental rules.

Emerging Needs in Sulfuric Acid and Desulfurization

Special equipment supports zinc processing and green goals. Sulfuric acid is central to zinc production, so corrosion-resistant equipment like acid distributors and alloy-lined towers are needed. These ensure smooth gas-liquid interactions and reduce acid mist. Desulfurization Equipment Series, like NHD’s patented demisters, are crucial for cleaning sulfur gases to avoid problems like acid rain. With export-driven production growing, these equipment will be in high demand, especially in regions with tough green laws. NHD’s solutions fit these needs perfectly.

NHD: A Trusted Partner in Chemical Equipment

NHD provides dependable, creative solutions for zinc industry challenges.

Company Overview

NHD has led the chemical equipment field since 1992. Started in 1992, Jiangsu New Hongda Group Co., Ltd. (NHD) is a major private company based in Xinghua City, Jiangsu, a hub for stainless steel. It has assets worth 1 billion yuan and a 270,000-square-meter facility. With over 800 workers, including 260+ technical experts, NHD handles design, research, manufacturing, installation, and EPC services. It holds ISO9001:2015 certification and awards like the National May 1st Labor Award, making it a trusted partner for zinc producers worldwide.

Comprehensive Product Portfolio

NHD’s products support zinc smelting and related processes. NHD offers a wide range of equipment for zinc and non-ferrous metals:

• Série de filtros: Separates solids from liquids in zinc ore processing.
• Automatic Press Filter Series: High-pressure systems for better filtration.
• Agitator & Thickener Series: Manages slurry mixing and settling.
• Equipment for Sulfuric Acid Industry: Corrosion-resistant equipmentfor acid processes.
• Pressure Vessel Series: Safe containers for high-pressure zinc tasks.
• Desulfurization Equipment Series: Patented demisters to clear acid mist, meeting green standards.
• Filter Cloth Series: Made on German looms for strong filtration.
• Material Series: High-silicon stainless steel for tough environments. Backed by national patents and a provincial technology center, these products ensure top performance.

Commitment to Innovation and Service

NHD offers fast, high-quality service to global zinc producers. NHD’s “4S” service model provides 24-hour maintenance support. Mobile teams work in 52 countries, including zinc-rich areas like Indonesia and Australia. Innovations like phosphoric acid rapid extraction and sulfuric acid waste heat recovery have won awards, such as the China Nonferrous Metals Industry Science and Technology Award. This focus on new ideas and service makes NHD a key ally for zinc producers expanding exports.

Conclusion

China’s zinc exports boost equipment needs and market balance. China’s 2025 zinc export surge, driven by global price spikes and local oversupply, offers a chance to stabilize world markets. It also highlights the need for modern, green equipment. As smelters scale up, demand grows for equipment like Filter Series, Equipment for Sulfuric Acid Industry, and Desulfurization Equipment Series. NHD’s wide product range, innovative solutions, and global service network make it a vital partner for zinc producers aiming for efficiency and sustainability in a competitive market.

FAQs

Q1: Why are zinc prices rising globally but not in China?

A: Global smelter cuts and low stockpiles push up LME prices. China’s oversupply and weak property demand keep local prices down, opening export chances.

Q2: How do China’s zinc exports affect global supply chains?

A: Exports ease shortages in places like Southeast Asia. They stabilize prices and reduce LME backwardation, ensuring steady supply for buyers.

Q3: What equipment is key for efficient zinc production?

A: Filter Series, Agitator & Thickener Series, Equipment for Sulfuric Acid Industry, and Desulfurization Equipment Series optimize smelting, cut waste, and meet green standards.