Vale says 2016 output will come in at the lower end of expectations, potentially pushing the Brazilian giant to number two in global iron ore rankings.
Should the court decide the claim can be heard in Canada, it could have wider implications for Canadian mining companies operating in countries with less than sterling environmental and human rights records.
The outlook for zinc appears bullish, says Stefan Ioannou of Haywood Securities, spearheaded by mine closures, dwindling production and the dearth of replacement projects.