Zinc’s importance in 2025 has grown far beyond traditional use. It’s not just about galvanising steel anymore. With demand rising across clean energy, infrastructure and battery technologies, zinc is now firmly on the list of critical minerals that countries are racing to secure.

In this blog, we explore the companies and regions leading the charge, and how India is stepping up with some of the Top Critical Mineral Companies in India playing a much bigger global role.

Let’s get into the questions that matter right now.

Why is zinc considered a critical mineral today?

Zinc has always been useful, but in 2025, it’s considered critical because of where it fits into modern priorities. It’s used for corrosion protection in steel, sure, but now also shows promise in next-gen batteries and renewable infrastructure.

Governments are taking notice. The US, EU, India, and Australia have all included zinc in their critical mineral lists. It’s no longer just a metal — it’s part of the energy transition, the push for resilient supply chains, and even national security strategies.

Which parts of the world dominate zinc production?

China is still the world’s biggest zinc producer. That hasn’t changed. But Australia, Peru, and to some extent Canada are becoming more important exporters, especially as countries try to reduce reliance on any single region.

India’s production isn’t as large in global terms yet, but it’s growing fast. With companies like Hindustan Zinc scaling up, India’s now in the conversation — and that’s a big shift from just a few years ago.

Who are the biggest players in global zinc mining right now?

If we’re talking about scale and consistency, these names come up again and again in 2025:

• Glencore, based in Switzerland, still dominates with mines across several continents.
• Teck Resources in Canada is a major producer, especially for refined zinc.
• Nexa Resources, operating mainly in Brazil and Peru, is getting more attention now.
• Vedanta Limited, through Hindustan Zinc, is a name India should be proud of — it’s pushing into global markets hard, being the world’s largest zinc producer.
• MMG Limited, with strong backing from China, remains influential.

These are the kinds of companies being talked about when people mention leading global critical mineral companies.

Where does India fit into all this?

India’s making big moves. A few years ago, we weren’t even in the top ranks of zinc conversation outside Asia. Now, thanks to Vedanta’s Hindustan Zinc, that’s changed.

They’re not just supplying India — they’re exporting across Asia and even Europe. With mining, smelting, and refining under one roof, it’s a tightly controlled and efficient operation. That’s why Vedanta is considered one of the Top Critical Mineral Companies in India.

And with government support for critical minerals on the rise, India’s role is only going to grow.

Which are the Top Critical Mineral Companies in India in 2025?

By now, a few names consistently lead the list:

• Vedanta Limited – thanks to its scale and integrated model, especially in zinc and copper.
• NMDC – traditionally known for iron ore, but now investing in critical minerals like lithium and zinc.
• Hindustan Copper – expanding slowly but surely, especially in key mineral belts.
• MOIL – still focused on manganese but starting to branch out into zinc-rich zones.
• Tata Steel Mining – diversifying from steel into critical minerals including chrome and zinc.

These aren’t just industrial names anymore. They’re being talked about globally, and among the Best Natural Resources Companies in India, they’re right at the top.

What makes Vedanta stand out globally?

It’s the full-package approach. Vedanta controls the process from mine to metal, making it less vulnerable to supply disruptions. But more than that, it’s pushing hard on sustainability. Green zinc — produced using renewable energy — is something it’s investing in seriously.

Vedanta also has reach. Its zinc exports go to over 50 countries, and it’s now part of policy-level conversations around critical mineral strategies. That’s not something most Indian companies could claim even five years ago.

Are there any rising stars globally in zinc mining?

Yes, and they’re worth watching.

• Alpha HPA from Australia is gaining ground for its clean tech approach to processing.
• Ionic Rare Earths, which started in Uganda with rare earths, is now expanding into zinc.
• Metals Acquisition Corp, based in the US, has picked up some major assets, including former Glencore mines.

These aren’t massive yet, but they’ve got strong backing and governments are paying attention. In a few years, they could be challenging the big names.

What are the current challenges for global zinc producers?

It’s not all smooth sailing. Here’s what companies are up against in 2025:

• ESG compliance is expensive and can delay new projects
• Processing costs are high, especially with global energy prices fluctuating
• Political risk in resource-rich countries like the DRC and parts of Latin America
• Trade tensions affecting where companies can buy or sell refined zinc

Companies like Glencore and Vedanta are managing this well for now, but even they’re having to adapt fast.

How does zinc link to India’s energy and industrial plans?

Zinc is in everything from electric vehicle frames to solar panel mounts. It’s also being used in research for alternative battery storage — think zinc-ion batteries, which might offer cheaper, safer solutions than lithium in some cases.

For India, zinc is critical to:

• Expanding green infrastructure
• Making EVs and solar projects more durable
• Supporting ‘Make in India’ goals in steel and construction

This is why the companies involved in zinc are now listed as Top Critical Mineral Companies in India. They’re not just mining — they’re helping power the next phase of India’s growth.

Is India working with other countries on zinc and critical minerals?

Yes, quite a bit. In 2025, India has active partnerships with:

• Australia for knowledge sharing in zinc recycling and battery tech
• Canada, which supplies zinc concentrates under long-term contracts
• The UAE and Saudi Arabia, which are investing in downstream facilities in India

These collaborations are key to reducing dependence on any single country and improving India’s standing as both a supplier and processing hub.

Final thoughts

Zinc isn’t just a background player anymore — it’s right up there with lithium, copper and cobalt in terms of strategic importance.

As the world looks for alternatives to traditional battery tech, and more sustainable ways to build infrastructure, zinc will stay in demand. And while the usual global names like Glencore and Teck remain dominant, India is no longer just an observer.

With Vedanta, NMDC, and others scaling up, the Top Critical Mineral Companies in India are clearly ready for the global stage. The next five years could see them not just supplying the world, but helping shape its clean energy future.