Zambia is implementing a series of strategic initiatives aimed at significantly boosting its copper production, with the ambitious goal of reaching 3.1 million tonnes annually by 2031. These efforts encompass government-led programmes and private sector investments designed to revitalise the nation’s mining sector and attract substantial foreign investment.
In February 2025, the Zambian government introduced the Zambia Integrated Mining Information System, a digital platform intended to enhance efficiency and transparency in mining licence management. This system is expected to streamline approval processes, making it more attractive for investors and expediting exploration activities. Additionally, a non-compliance monitoring project led to the repossession of over 1,000 mining licences in 2024, which are now being reallocated to new investors to accelerate exploration efforts. The Ministry of Mines and Minerals Development reported a 79% increase in mining licences granted in 2024 compared to the previous year, reflecting a proactive approach to fostering a conducive environment for mining operations.
Collaborations with international partners further bolster Zambia’s mining prospects. The government, in partnership with the Geological Survey of Finland, is conducting a nationwide high-resolution aerial geophysical survey to map mineral resources and open new exploration basins. Moreover, the establishment of the Zambia Minerals Investment Corporation Limited aims to facilitate joint venture investments in exploration, production, and mineral processing. On January 16, 2025, Zambia signed a cooperation agreement with Saudi Arabia to promote human capital development, technology transfer, and investments in copper exploration and production.
The private sector is also playing a pivotal role in Zambia’s copper expansion agenda. In January 2025, Barrick Gold announced plans to utilise a new exploration licence in northern Zambia and continue drilling at Lumwana, aligning with the country’s 2031 production target. UK-based Jubilee Metals Group is undertaking several drilling projects to support growth at its Roan and Sable Refinery sites. Additionally, Handa Resources, a joint venture between Arc Minerals and Anglo American, commenced drilling across three newly approved licences in Zambia in January 2025.
These concerted efforts by both the government and private sector underscore Zambia’s commitment to revitalising its mining industry and positioning itself as a leading copper producer on the global stage. The upcoming African Mining Week, scheduled from October 1-3 in Cape Town, will serve as a premier platform to showcase these investment opportunities and foster further collaborations within the industry.
ARC Minerals Ltd (LON:ARCM) is a dynamic exploration and prospect generation company, forging partnerships with major mining companies, in its quest to discover and develop Tier 1 copper deposits.
