Zijin Mining Aims to Build World’s Largest Copper Mine in Tibet

Zijin Mining, a leading Chinese gold and copper producer, is setting its sights on expanding the Julong copper mine in Tibet, aiming to elevate it to the status of the world's largest single copper mine. The total investment for this ambitious project is estimated at 17.5 billion yuan ($2.43 billion), with plans already underway to boost production and capacity.

Pending approval from local authorities for its third phase of expansion, Zijin projects an annual output increase to about 200 million tonnes. The company, which took over the Julong project in 2020, successfully commenced operations within just 18 months, showcasing its efficiency and commitment to growth.

Beyond Julong, Zijin's presence in Tibet includes the acquisition of the Zhunuo copper mine in August 2023, a controlling stake in lithium producer Lakkor Resources, and significant investments in Yulong Copper and Tianyuan Mining, further solidifying its position in the region's mining sector.