Zambia’s Copper Output Surges 17.6% Amid Global Price Slump, Signalling Mining Sector Resilience

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Zambia posted a sharp rise in refined copper exports in the first quarter of 2025, with volumes reaching 283,500 tonnes—up from 241,100 tonnes during the same period in 2024. This 17.6% year-on-year jump reaffirms copper’s pivotal role as Zambia’s primary export and a key economic driver.

According to data from the Zambia Statistics Agency (ZamStats), this surge in export volume contrasts with a marginal drop in earnings, highlighting the impact of global price fluctuations. Acting Statistician-General Sheila Mudenda, through a report delivered by Chief Statistician Chola Daka, noted that while refined copper volumes climbed, export revenue dipped by 0.3%, from K19.7 billion in March to K19.6 billion in April 2025.

“Copper export volumes rose by 1.6%, from 71,200 tonnes in March to 72,300 tonnes in April,” Mudenda said, attributing the slight revenue contraction to a 5.5% drop in global copper prices on the London Metal Exchange—from US$9,731.10 per tonne in March to US$9,192.10 in April.

This global price decline also affected Zambia’s broader traditional exports, which saw earnings fall 0.8%, from K19.8 billion in March to K19.7 billion in April, underscoring the vulnerability of resource-dependent economies to international market shifts.

Despite revenue pressures, analysts see the rising export volumes as a sign of improved operational efficiency and productivity in the mining sector. Observers credit Zambia’s mining policy reforms and investor-friendly strategies for the uptick, suggesting that the groundwork for long-term growth is beginning to take hold.

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With copper generating over 70% of the country’s export earnings, it remains the cornerstone of Zambia’s economy. The government continues to push for reforms aimed at boosting production, ensuring transparency, and securing better trade terms with global buyers.

While rising output offers hope for economic recovery, experts stress the need for Zambia to diversify its economy and track global commodity trends closely to buffer against future shocks.