Zambia Waives Export Taxes on Copper to Address Smelting Challenges
Zambia, Africa's second-largest copper producer, has extended its temporary waiver of the 10% export tax on copper concentrates until September 30. This decision aims to alleviate the accumulation of copper concentrate stocks due to operational and technical issues at smelting plants across the country. The tax suspension, initially implemented in August 2025, covers 271,742 metric tons of copper concentrate permitted for export. Major beneficiaries include Mopani Copper Mines, Lumwana Mining Company, First Quantum Minerals, and others, who have been granted duty-free export quotas. Zambia historically exports processed copper cathodes rather than raw concentrates, and this move is part of efforts to maximize revenue from the country's resources.