Votorantim Metals (VM) has signed an option to buy 70% of the zincs operations of New Burnswick which currently belong to Xstrata and El Niño Ventures through its Canadian subsidiary. The company will invest US$ 9.1 million over five years for 50% of the operation and has an option to increase this stake to 70% with the payment of another US$ 9.1 million over two years. The mine is located in the southern region which has the greatest potential in terms of zinc production in Canada.

VM already has a mineral exploration office in Canada to pursue new business in the country. VM also operates in the United States and China through USZinc and has a plant in Cajamarquilla, Peru, and a stake in the Peruvian mining company Milpo.