JGI-HYDROMETAL: Over a century of combined expertise in metal recycling

The last quarter of 2025 marks two significant milestones for the JGI-HYDROMETAL group: the 65th anniversary of JEAN GOLDSCHMIDT INTERNATIONAL (JGI) and the 40th anniversary of its subsidiary HYDROMETAL.

JGI began its metal trading operations in 1960 under CERRO INTERNATIONAL BRUSSELS, evolving into JEAN GOLDSCHMIDT INTERNATIONAL in 1982. The group expanded its activities strategically over the years, launching the first recycling site HYDROMETAL in Engis, Belgium, in 1985. Further strategic growth included the consolidation of the JGI-HYDROMETAL group under the SILOX holding in 2002, and the establishment of new recycling sites such as HARZ OXID in Goslar, Germany (2020), JGI Thailand in Chachoengsao (2021), and HYDROMETAL France in Dunkirk (2025). This global structure strengthens the group’s position in commercial operations and treatment of secondary materials containing non-ferrous metals.

HYDROMETAL started as a zinc recycling operation in 1985 but expanded to recover multiple base, precious, minor, and strategic metals from residues across different sectors. It has become a key player in hydrometallurgical recycling, combining industrial efficiency with quality, safety, and environmental compliance.

The JGI-HYDROMETAL group is recognized for its continuous innovation and adaptability, contributing significantly to the circular economy within the metal industry.