First Quantum Minerals’ expanded Kansanshi copper mine in Zambia is on track to process about 27 million metric tons of ore in 2026, exceeding its design capacity by 8% as the Canadian miner seeks to strengthen production from its largest African operation. The performance highlights the benefits of a $1.2 billion expansion commissioned last year.

Expansion lifts processing capacity

The S3 expansion project, commissioned in August 2025, is designed to double Kansanshi’s annual copper production to about 277,000 metric tons. At its center is a new sulphide processing line with an annual capacity of 25 million metric tons, more than doubling the mine’s processing capability and allowing it to handle larger volumes of lower-grade ore.

First Quantum attributed the plant’s performance to strong equipment availability, utilization and milling efficiency. Processing more ore above the facility’s design capacity could support higher copper output, although actual production will also depend on ore grades, recoveries and operating conditions.

Zambia anchors copper production

Zambia has become increasingly important to First Quantum since Panama suspended operations at the company’s Cobre Panama mine in 2023. The country accounted for about 93% of the group’s copper production in 2025, making Kansanshi’s performance central to the miner’s operating outlook.

The expansion also supports Zambia’s ambition to increase annual copper production to 3 million metric tons by 2031, from 890,346 metric tons in 2025. The government is seeking to capitalize on rising global demand for copper, a key material used in electricity networks, renewable energy infrastructure and electric vehicles.

Revenue climbs as costs weigh

First Quantum, which operates mines across five continents and employs about 14,500 people, owns 80% of Kansanshi. The mine, located near Solwezi in northwestern Zambia, is among Africa’s largest copper operations and remains a major contributor to the company’s production profile.

First Quantum reported second-quarter 2026 revenue of $1.52 billion, up 24.7% from $1.22 billion a year earlier. Gross profit fell to $297 million from $351 million, while EBITDA totaled $400 million. Net earnings attributable to shareholders reached $136 million, or $0.16 per share.