Zinc and Lead

At Glencore Canada, our zinc and lead business includes CEZinc and General Smelting of Canada – two entities that share a rich history, all originating from Noranda Mines Limited.

With the intricacies of refining and lead alloy production, we are dedicated to delivering the essential zinc and lead that help fuel modern life and drive emerging technologies forward.

Zinc is not just a mineral; it’s a cornerstone of modern society, with diverse applications that touch nearly every aspect of our lives. Some of its vital roles include: 

• Corrosion Resistance: The annual global cost of corrosion is estimated at US$3.2 trillion, which exceeds 3% of the world’s GDP. The World Corrosion Organization estimates that applying current corrosion control technologies, like zinc coatings, could save approximately US$400 billion per year.

• Renewable Technology: Zinc is crucial in renewable energy technologies, with a 100MW solar panel park – enough to supply 110,000 homes – requiring 240 tonnes of zinc and a 10MW offshore wind turbine requiring four tonnes of zinc.

• Public Health and Agriculture: Over one billion people worldwide are classified as zinc deficient. Zinc contributes to immune health and is used in fertilizers that boost crop yields and food security.

• Circularity and Recycling: Zinc is highly recyclable. The end-of-life recycling rate in Europe and North America exceeds 50%. For rolled zinc, the recycling rate is above 95%.

Being active in the primary production, marketing, and recycling of zinc and lead, means we are well-positioned to meet the growing demand across automotive, energy storage, agriculture, infrastructure, and renewable energy sectors.

We invite you to read more about zinc on the website of the International Zinc Association.

CEZinc – Modernizing North America’s zinc refining

Located in Salaberry-de-Valleyfield, Quebec, CEZinc is the largest primary zinc refinery in eastern North America and a key supplier to markets across the continent.

• In 2023, Glencore took a significant step by acquiring full ownership and initiating a C$200 million modernization project.
• This ambitious investment replaced all electrolytic cells and overhead cranes, enhancing energy efficiency, productivity, and workplace safety.
• Completed in 2025, this project solidifies CEZinc’s role in both the Canadian and global zinc supply chain.

General Smelting of Canada – Expertise in lead alloy production

Founded in 1955 and based in Lachine, Quebec, General Smelting of Canada has established itself as a leader in producing lead alloys and products for a vast array of applications—from metal refining to automotive batteries.

Today, they specialize in crafting lead alloy anodes for zinc, copper, cobalt, and nickel refining processes, as well as anodes for chrome plating. Additionally, General Smelting manufactures lead sheets, which are ideal for radiation shielding and soundproofing.

Kidd Operations – A legacy of base metal mining

In 2026, Glencore sold its Kidd Operations in Timmins, Ontario, to Discovery Silver after more than 60 years of operations as part of the zinc and lead business. 

We are proud of Kidd’s legacy, and we are grateful to the generations of employees that have defined its success. 

Glencore remains focused on the future of mining in the province, including investments such as the Onaping Depth Project at Craig Mine in Sudbury that will help support a strong, resilient, and sustainable mining sector in Ontario for years to come.