BHP Puts Zambia Back on Map as Copper Earnings Surpass Iron Ore

BHP's growing reliance on copper as an earnings driver is shifting its focus to Zambia. The mining giant has seen copper generate $18.2 billion in operating earnings, surpassing iron ore as its largest contributor.

This shift highlights the increasing importance of copper in BHP's portfolio, driven by stronger prices and sustained demand expectations. As a result, Zambia is re-emerging on BHP's strategic map.

BHP has renewed interest in large-scale copper exploration in the country, focusing on identifying substantial deposits to support long-life mining operations. This marks a change in BHP's approach to Africa, where it previously had limited direct exposure.