Seoul, Washington may discuss using US investment fund for Korea Zinc refinery: minister

The use of Korea's special U.S. investment fund for Korea Zinc's plan to build a critical metals refinery in America's southern region is "a matter to be discussed" with Washington, Industry Minister Kim Jung-kwan said Wednesday. Kim made the remarks at a press briefing held shortly after the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Resources' policy briefing to President Lee Jae Myung, when asked if there are any concerns over the financial pressure on Korea Zinc from the company's investment plan in the U.S. "As I understand, Korea Zinc has calculated the costs and returns of this business," Kim said, noting that Seoul and Washington can discuss using Korea's special fund for U.S. investment in this case. "But we have not held such discussions at this point." Earlier this week, Korea's biggest zinc smelter said the company and the U.S. government are seeking to jointly invest around 10 trillion won ($6.8 billion) to construct a critical metals refinery in Clarksville, Tennessee. Kim said Korea Zinc's plan will not only help the company but also help Korea secure supply chains for rare earths andWeiter zum vollständigen Artikel bei Korea Times Weiter zum vollständigen Artikel bei Korea Times