Zambia's Smaller Miners Face Acid Shortage Threat

Small and medium-sized mining companies in Zambia are facing difficulties due to a persistent shortage of sulphuric acid, an essential input for copper leaching and processing. The United Mineworkers Union of Zambia (UMUZ) has warned that continued supply constraints could lead to mine closures. UMUZ President Yosam Nyirongo attributed the pressure on domestic availability to exports to the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Nyirongo also raised concerns about intermediaries purchasing acid and reselling it at higher prices, contributing to higher operating costs for smaller mining companies. The union had previously called for restrictions on acid exports until domestic demand could be adequately supplied. Recent reports indicate that limited availability of sulphuric acid is a major factor behind declining copper production among small-scale miners.

The latest warning does not indicate an immediate loss of Zambian copper supply, as no mine closures have yet been confirmed. However, persistent sulphuric acid shortages represent a potential downside risk for smaller leaching operations if producers are unable to obtain sufficient volumes at economically viable prices.