Lead Production in Morocco at the Zellidja Lead Smelter Company

ABSTRACT: The subsoil of Morocco is marked by a wealth of mineral resources (phosphate, lead, zinc, coal and others). For this reason, the mining sector is still considered one of the main pillars of the national economy. The Moroccan lead deposits are located mainly in the Atlas region and the Eastern region. The Zellidja lead smelter company has succeeded in distinguishing itself and being among the best lead smelters in Morocco. It is known nationally and internationally for its production of soft lead, antimonial lead oxide, fine silver, copper matte and triple alloy concentrate. The majority of its production is destined for international markets such as Europe, North Africa, Near East and Middle East. In addition, it is also recognized for its large capacity of processing lead concentrate from several mines. This capacity has obviously increased and decreased over time, depending on the number of mines exploited, the presence or absence of ore, the quality of the industrial equipment, the number of employees and other circumstances