Zambia copper production is targeted to reach 1.5 million tons by 2015.
According to Richard Musukwa, Zambia Mines, Energy and Water Development deputy Minister, who spoke recently to Parliament, relations with the mining companies have remained strong and copper production is expected to reach and exceed the targeted goal.
“There has been steady increase and once mining projects ramp up operations, we envisage to hit the 1.5 million tons copper production by 2015,” said Mr. Musukwa, adding “We have no squabbles whatsoever with the mining companies and we still continue to attract Foreign Direct Investment in the mines.”
According to Mr. Musukwa, as soon as full production begins at developing mining companies, Zambia copper production would surpass the projected 1.5 million tons mark.
According to the Zambian Mines Minister Christopher Yaluma, the government is committed to ensuring that the country continues to increase its copper production as this will bring development to all sectors of the economy.
Copper is currently the top foreign currency earner in Zambia top foreign currency earner, bringing in billions of dollars in revenue each year.
Over the past 10 years, the total investment in the sector has equaled US$8.5 billion.
