Zimbabwe’s copper sector is showing early signs of recovery, with production rebounding sharply in March as the country positions itself to tap into rising global demand for the strategic mineral, whose importance continues to grow in the renewable energy and electric vehicle industries.
Latest figures from the Ministry of Mines and Mining Development’s Research Department show copper production climbed to 601 metric tonnes in March, more than doubling February’s output of 260 tonnes and marking the highest monthly production recorded during the first quarter of 2026.
Speaking on the outlook for the sector, the Ministry of Mines and Mining Development observed that the strong monthly rebound provides an encouraging signal for the sector following a slower start to the year, with January production standing at 353 tonnes.
“Our thrust is to ensure that Zimbabwe derives maximum value from its mineral endowment. Minerals such as copper are becoming increasingly important globally, and we are working to create an environment that attracts investment, expands production and promotes value addition,” it said.
Although first-quarter production stood at 1,216 metric tonnes, below the 2,561.78 tonnes recorded during the corresponding period last year, the March recovery has raised optimism that production could strengthen in the coming quarters if the upward trajectory is sustained.
The improving outlook comes at a time when global copper demand continues to rise, driven by the expansion of renewable energy infrastructure, electric vehicle manufacturing, power transmission networks and the worldwide shift towards cleaner energy technologies.
Copper prices have remained firm on international markets, trading at about US$13,800 per tonne in July 2026, while international investment bank Macquarie has projected an average price of US$13,165 per tonne for the year, underscoring continued confidence in the metal’s long-term prospects.
Chamber of Mines of Zimbabwe also noted that the rising global demand for copper presented a strategic opportunity for Zimbabwe’s mining sector.
“Copper is one of the minerals that will define the future of global industrial development because of its role in energy transition, electrification and infrastructure development. Zimbabwe has the resource base, and with the right investment and technology, the country can rebuild its copper production capacity,” said the chamber.
The favourable market conditions present Zimbabwe with an opportunity to revitalise its copper industry and diversify mineral exports beyond its traditional mainstays of gold, platinum group metals and lithium.
Zimbabwe possesses significant copper resources and has a history of strong production, with output reaching about 16,000 tonnes in 1990.
With international demand projected to remain strong over the medium to long term, sustained investment in exploration, modern mining technologies and production capacity could see Zimbabwe’s copper industry regain momentum, contributing to export earnings, industrialisation and employment creation.
