Copper production in Zambia reaches 1.5 million tons a year Limitation of supply from 100% to 70%

Zambian Minister of Mines, Christopher Yaluma, said on February 6 that Zambia's annual copper production is expected to increase to 1.5 million tons due to improved electricity supply and easing of tensions between producers and the government.

Yaluma said during the annual International Mining Conference in Cape Town: "The outlook for mining in Zambia looks pretty optimistic."

"The government has lifted the previous 100% power supply restrictions on the mining industry and adjusted the electricity supply limit to 70%. The policy has now started to be implemented and the current price of copper is good."

Yaluma added: "Zambia currently produces around 800,000 tonnes of copper a year, but is expected to produce 1.5 million tonnes next year."