Demand for physical bullion in Germany was the highest since at least 2009 in the first half.

Rio Tinto in July committed $2.4 billion to its Jadar project as global miners push into metals needed for the green energy transition.

Czech Republic is also hoping to start lithium mining from deposits on the north-western border with Germany.

In an unprecedented year marked by disruptions due to the global pandemic, copper mine production was contingent on how each company overcame operational challenges.

Ramp-up in green policies supportive of battery metals.

The moves to support production of rare earth permanent magnets would mirror legislation introduced in the United States earlier this month.