Zambia Miners Seek Election Boost for Copper Drive
Zambia's mining sector is pushing for stronger incentives to reach its ambitious goal of tripling copper production by next year.
The country, Africa's second-largest copper producer, aims to increase annual output from current levels to three million tons, capitalizing on rising demand from electric vehicles, power networks, and construction.
Copper futures have surged more than 40% over the past year to $14,000 per ton, but mining companies say stronger incentives are needed for exploration, local manufacturing, and value addition, alongside major infrastructure investments.
Ayo Sopitan, CEO of Metalex Commodities, called for rule of law and dispute-resolution mechanisms, noting export duties on concentrates still burden producers lacking refining capacity.