Zambia Extends Duty-Free Copper Concentrate Export Waiver Amid Smelter Outages
Zambia has extended its duty-free copper concentrate export waiver until September 30, 2026, due to ongoing smelter outages. This policy allows the export of 271,742 metric tons of copper concentrate without the usual 10% export duty, which is crucial as domestic smelting capacity is currently insufficient. The waiver was first introduced in August 2025 and has been extended to alleviate the impact of smelter disruptions on the mining sector. Major operators like Mopani Copper Mines and Konkola Copper Mines are among the beneficiaries, with Mopani receiving the largest quota. The waiver aims to prevent concentrate stockpiles from forcing production curtailments, which would negatively impact Zambia's economy. 
