Copper output at Chilean state miner Codelco, one of the world's largest copper producers, fell 5% from a year earlier in July to 112,800 metric tons, according to data from state copper commission Cochilco released on Thursday, September 10, 2026. The decline represents a continuation of operational difficulties facing the major producer as it contends with various challenges at its key mining facilities. Production figures from other major Chilean copper operations showed mixed results during the same period.
BHP-controlled Escondida, identified as the world's biggest copper mine, experienced a more significant slump, with output declining 22.1% to 89,400 tons. In contrast, Collahuasi, which is jointly owned by Anglo American and Glencore, demonstrated stronger performance with output rising 12.3% to 38,400 tons. Chile's overall copper production contracted 9.4% in July, with the decline attributed to severe weather conditions in the northern regions and scheduled maintenance work at major mining operations.
Looking ahead, Cochilco indicated in August forecasts that Chile's total copper output is expected to decline approximately 2.5% during 2026, with projections calling for a rebound in production during 2027. Source: Reuters (September 10, 2026) via Mining.com
Source: mining.com