By the beginning of 2026, copper has firmly established itself as not only an industrial metal but also a strategic resource, directly impacting the economic power of states. As of January current year, copper prices on the London Metal Exchange (LME) fluctuate between $12,500 and $13,000 per ton, representing a price increase of approximately 40% compared to previous years.

A refined copper shortage of 150,000 to 330,000 tonnes is forecasted on the global market this year. This situation creates favorable economic conditions for copper-producing countries, including Uzbekistan. The projects being implemented at the Almalyk Mining and Metallurgical Complex to expand production capacity are aimed specifically at increasing of copper output.

Specifically, rapid construction of a new processing complex is currently underway at Copper Concentrator-2. The project envisages an increase in ore processing capacity by 5 million tons per year.

The complex, located on an area of 3.1 hectares, is being constructed by the “Olmalikmetallurgkurilish”. Excavation work is currently underway. The design documentation was developed by the Design Department of the Complex.

The installation and assembly of process equipment shall be performed by the Specialized Repair Department. The manufacture of the main equipment has been entrusted to the team of the Central Repair and Mechanical Plant.

The commissioning of the complex shall create approximately 600 new jobs. At the same time, marketable output and budget revenues will increase.

The concentrator is designed to process ore from the Yoshlik I deposit. Its design capacity is 5 million tons of ore per year, yielding 74,200 tons of concentrate. This, in turn, will ensure increased production of copper cathode, as well as precious metals such as gold and silver.

The modern production complex will include crushing, grinding, flotation, filtration, and thickening sections, as well as compressor stations.

Once commissioned, the total ore processing capacity will reach almost 10 million tons per year.

Thus, favorable global copper market conditions, combined with the commissioning of new production capacity at the Complex, create a solid foundation for further industrial development, increased export potential, and stronger economic stability.

Information Service