Article

In 2025, Chile's copper production fell almost 2% to 5.415 million tons, despite a 43% price increase. Only eight of 17 major private mines increased output, indicating less than half saw gains, while total production from these mines dropped nearly 3% to 3.846 million tons.

Codelco's output was 1.334 million tons, up 0.45%. Notably, Escondida's production rose by 5.3%, and Capstone's Mantoverde increased by 64.8%. Collahuasi saw the largest decline at 27%. Analysts report structural challenges, including aging mines and lower ore grades, stressing the need for investment to sustain production.