Zambia’s copper production increased by 8% in 2025, supported by higher output at several major mines, but still fell short of the government’s one-million-tonne target, the Ministry of Mines said on Tuesday.
Africa’s second-largest copper producer recorded output of 890,346 metric tonnes last year, up from 825,513 tonnes in 2024. Despite the improvement, the result underscores the challenges facing the country’s mining sector as it works to stabilise production and attract investment.
Zambia has set an ambitious goal to lift copper production to three million tonnes by 2031, positioning itself to benefit from rising global demand driven by electric vehicles and renewable energy infrastructure.
The 2025 increase was largely driven by Konkola Copper Mines (KCM), operated by Vedanta Resources, which reported a four-fold rise in output to 80,215 tonnes. Mopani Copper Mines, acquired by the UAE’s International Resources Holding in 2023, boosted production by 40%.
Additional gains were recorded at First Quantum Minerals’ Kansanshi mine and Lubambe mine, operated by China’s JCHX Mining.
However, production was constrained by several setbacks. A tailings dam collapse in February forced Sino-Metals Leach to suspend operations, while First Quantum’s Trident mine posted an 18% decline in output, partly due to lower ore grades.
The government has said it is committed to restoring stability and confidence in the mining sector as it works toward long-term production growth.
