What is the significance of the Hermosa Critical Minerals Project receiving fast-track approval from the US Forest Service?

The Hermosa Critical Minerals Project is the first mining project to receive expedited treatment from the US Department of Agriculture, following its designation for swift review by the Federal Permitting Improvement Steering Council; this fast-track approval allows the project to secure authorization two months ahead of the federal environmental law deadline, reflecting the Trump administration’s priority to accelerate domestic critical mineral production and reduce reliance on foreign sources—particularly China—for zinc and manganese essential to manufacturing and advanced energy technology.

Where is South32’s Hermosa mine located, and what is its expected timeline for full production?

South32’s Hermosa Critical Minerals Project is located in the Patagonia Mountains about 80 kilometers (50 miles) southeast of Tucson, Arizona, near the Mexico border, and the company has stated it will reach full production by 2029.

South32’s Arizona Zinc and Manganese Mine to Get US Approval

Jul 6, 2026

The Trump administration will authorize South32's $2 billion zinc and manganese mine in Arizona via fast-track permitting to reduce reliance on Chinese imports. Full production is targeted for 2029 to bolster domestic supply chains for critical minerals.

bloomberg

2026-07-06

South32’s Arizona Zinc and Manganese Mine to Get US Approval

South32’s Arizona Zinc and Manganese Mine to Get US Approval

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