ILZSG Forecasts Global Lead Surplus and Zinc Deficit for 2026
2026-04-24 14:13:38 [Print]
The International Lead and Zinc Study Group (ILZSG) projected on Thursday that the global lead market will see a surplus of 109,000 metric tons in 2026, while the zinc market will face a deficit of 19,000 metric tons.
Global demand for refined lead is expected to grow by 1.1% this year, reaching 13.72 million tons, and refined zinc demand is forecast to rise by 1.3% to 14.00 million tons, the group added.
According to ILZSG, world production of refined zinc metal is set to increase by 1.4% in 2026, hitting 13.99 million tons, while refined lead output is predicted to rise by 1.3% to 13.83 million tons.
Global demand for refined lead is expected to grow by 1.1% this year, reaching 13.72 million tons, and refined zinc demand is forecast to rise by 1.3% to 14.00 million tons, the group added.
According to ILZSG, world production of refined zinc metal is set to increase by 1.4% in 2026, hitting 13.99 million tons, while refined lead output is predicted to rise by 1.3% to 13.83 million tons.
Lead Conc. Pb 50%min, Ag 200g/dt max EXW China TC
Unit:RMB/mmt
China primary lead producers' inventory to production ratio statistics by province by month
Unit: %
