Lumwana Copper Mine Sees 32% Revenue Jump Amid Higher Prices
Lumwana copper mine in Zambia reported a significant revenue increase of 32.1% to $852 million in the first half of 2026, compared to $645 million during the same period last year.
The rise in revenue can be attributed to higher copper prices, which more than offset the decline in sales volumes. The mine's average realised copper price was $3.21 per pound, approximately $7,077 per tonne, up from $2.51 per pound in 2025.
Copper sales decreased to 70,000 tonnes from 73,000 tonnes during the same period last year, but the increase in prices provided a substantial boost to Lumwana's revenue. With production expected to remain relatively stable at 150,000 tonnes, copper prices will continue to play a major role in determining the mine's revenue performance.
The stronger copper market has implications for Zambia as a whole, where copper is one of the country's most important exports and a significant contributor to economic activity. Higher copper prices can increase export earnings, government revenues, and economic benefits linked to mining operations.