Full Breakdown
Fire at Nexa Resources' Cajamarquilla Zinc Smelter in Peru
5/14/2026, 6:34:47 AM
Incident Overview
On May 13, 2026, a fire erupted at the Cajamarquilla zinc smelter in Lurigancho-Chosica, east of Lima, at about 7:17 a.m. local time, damaging electrical equipment at a nearby transmission substation. Nexa Resources evacuated personnel, activated emergency and safety protocols with local firefighters, and contained the blaze. Four people—one Nexa employee and three Hitachi contractors—were injured, treated and remain in stable condition; no fatalities occurred.
Background & Context
Cajamarquilla is the largest zinc smelter in Latin America and one of three owned by Nexa Resources, the others being Três Marias and Juiz de Fora in Brazil. Nexa has earmarked about $22 million for renovations in 2026, underscoring the facility’s strategic importance to its integrated polymetallic production model.
Timeline of Events
The fire started at 7:17 a.m., workers were evacuated, the blaze was contained by morning, and Nexa announced a temporary suspension of operations on May 13.
Data & Statistics
- Injuries: 4 (1 employee, 3 contractors)
- Fatalities: 0
- Damage: electrical equipment and portions of the smelter
- Renovation budget: $22 million (2026)
- Ownership: Nexa operates three zinc smelters (two in Brazil, one in Peru)
Official Statements & Responses
Nexa confirmed the fire, said the cause remains under investigation, and detailed evacuation and coordination with authorities. The company said current information does not indicate a material impact on its overall operations and that it is communicating with Peruvian authorities about resumption plans.
On-the-Ground Reports
Local media, citing firefighters, reported the fire originated near electrical equipment and that the transmission substation experienced temporary disruptions.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
All sources agree on injuries and lack of fatalities; the exact cause and full extent of damage have not been disclosed.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The company said the causes of the incident were under investigation.” — Nexa Resources
- “There were no fatalities.” — Nexa Resources
- “Four people sustained injuries, one Nexa employee and three contractors, and all are in stable condition.” — Nexa Resources
- “Based on currently available information, the Company does not anticipate a material impact arising from this incident.” — Nexa Resources
- “The incident has caused damage to portions of the smelter infrastructure.” — Nexa Resources
Why It Matters
As the region’s largest zinc smelter, Cajamarquilla’s interruption could affect zinc supply chains, though Nexa expects limited short-term impact. The incident highlights the need for robust safety and emergency protocols in high-capacity metallurgical plants.
What’s Next
Nexa will continue investigating the fire’s origin, assess repairs, and coordinate with authorities to set a resumption schedule. The 2026 renovation plan remains unchanged.
