First Quantum Minerals (FQM) says global copper output for Quarter 2 dropped by 9% to 91,069 tonnes, mainly due to reduced production at Kansanshi, which recorded 40,103 tonnes, down 6,441 tonnes from Quarter 1, owing to lower feed grades and a planned 40-day smelter shutdown.
FQM Chief Executive Officer, Tristan Pascall, however says its 2025 production target at Kansanshi remains unchanged at 160,000–190,000 tonnes of copper and 100,000–110,000 ounces of gold, with S3 expected to contribute from low-grade stockpiles.
Mr, Pascall also said that the company’s Sentinel Mine at Kalumbila produced 43,108 tonnes of copper, slightly down from Quater 1 due to lower ore grades adding that sentinel has begun installing a low-energy rail-run conveyor system aimed at cutting power use by up to 70%.
“At the Enterprise nickel mine, production fell 14% to 4,018 tonnes, affected by lower grades and throughput,” said Mr. Pascall in a statement issued to RCV News in Lusaka today.
He said despite this, annual guidance remains at 15,000–25,000 tonnes, with the company adjusting its mining strategy to contain costs amid challenging market conditions.
Mr. Pascall reaffirmed confidence in meeting the company’s 2025 targets and highlighted promising test results from a newly discovered gold zone at Kansanshi.
Meanwhile, Mr. Pascall revealed that its Kansanshi S3 expansion project in North-Western Province is 93% complete, with first copper production expected in the second half of 2025.
The update follows the company’s announcement of a US$351 million gross profit for the second quarter of 2025, a 6% rise from the previous quarter, driven by stronger copper and gold prices.
Angel Kasabo
