Congo Lithium Battery Production Company

Does Zijin Mining have a lithium project in Congo?

Zijin Mining plans lithium production in Congo by 2026, leveraging one of the world’s largest lithium deposits. Legal disputes between AVZ Minerals and the Congolese government complicate development of the Manono lithium project.

Will Zijin develop a phased lithium processing plant at Manono?

Zijin is progressing with its plans to develop a phased lithium processing plant at Manono, initially producing lithium concentrate and sulfate for export. Longer-term plans include local refining, contingent on a stable power supply. A Zijin subsidiary has already refurbished a nearby hydroelectric plant to support the operation.

Will Zijin produce lithium sulfate from Manono?

With an average grade of 1.51% lithium oxide, the Manono deposit is expected to meet growing global demand for lithium. Zijin plans to initially produce and export lithium concentrate and sulfate from Manono, with further processing facilities under consideration as power supply stabilizes.

Should artisanal mining be a boon for Congo?

Artisanal miners alone are responsible for more cobalt than any nation other than Congo, ranking behind only Congo’s industrial mines. The industry should be a boon for a country that the United Nations ranks among the least developed. But it hasn’t worked out that way.

Will Lithium prices rebound?

Despite the dramatic 90 percent drop in lithium prices since their 2022 peak, Zijin remains committed to the long-term growth prospects in the electric vehicle and energy storage sectors. The company is betting that global demand for lithium will recover, positioning itself to capitalize on this rebound.

Who are Congo's artisanal miners?

The worst conditions affect Congo’s “artisanal” miners — a too-quaint name for the impoverished workers who mine without pneumatic drills or diesel draglines. This informal army is big business, responsible for an estimated 10 to 25 percent of the world’s cobalt production and about 17 to 40 percent of production in Congo.