Metals Industry Daily Digest — 8 October 2025
Subject: Metals Industry Daily Digest — 8 October 2025
Here’s your metals / mining news digest for today (from Reuters, Mining.com, etc.):
📰 Top Headlines
Australia launches A$395M bailout for Glencore’s copper smelter The federal and Queensland governments will jointly fund support to sustain the Mount Isa smelter and Townsville refinery amid low smelting margins. Reuters
Gold breaks US$4,000/oz barrier amid risk aversion Investors have pushed gold to fresh highs, driven by demand for safe-haven assets and expectations of U.S. rate cuts. Reuters +2 Reuters +2
India becomes net importer of finished steel in September India imported ~0.65 Mt of finished steel in Sept, down 36% YoY. The government is considering import tariffs around 11–12% to curb inflows. Reuters
EU’s proposed steel quota cuts draw auto industry backlash The EU plan to slash tariff-free steel import quotas nearly in half and impose 50% duties on over‑quota volumes is being criticized by automakers for raising their input costs. Reuters +1
Tharisa to invest $547M in underground PGM / chrome expansion The South African miner plans to convert its open-pit operations into underground to extend mine life and optimize output. Reuters
BHP‑China dispute underscores M&A appeal in mining A conflict between BHP and its major customer China has sharpened focus on the benefits of diversification and consolidation in the sector. Reuters
Trump greenlights Alaska mining road, takes 10% in Trilogy Metals The U.S. government approved a 211‑mile road permit in the Ambler region and acquired a $35.6 M stake in Trilogy to support strategic mineral supply. Wall Street Journal +1
Congo will permanently ban cobalt exporters violating quotas Exporters exceeding the new quota system will face lifetime bans, aiming to rein in fraud and restore price discipline. Reuters
Rising tungsten costs squeeze oil drillers With China restricting exports, tungsten prices have surged, adding inflationary pressure to drill bit and equipment costs in the energy sector. Reuters