Copper Market Faces Production Challenges Amidst Price Stability
Despite a 40% price increase since 2025, copper prices have stabilized below $14,000 per ton due to production disruptions. Key producers like PT Freeport Indonesia have lowered production forecasts, highlighting supply chain vulnerabilities linked to sulfuric acid shortages.
Theia Market Signal Identification - AI AssistedCopper prices peaked at over $14,000 per ton in January 2026 but have since dropped despite ongoing production challenges. PT Freeport Indonesia revised its production target for 2026 from 1 billion to 700 million pounds due to delays caused by a deadly landslide in September 2025.
This is compounded by a sulfuric acid supply shortage affecting major producers like the DRC and Zambia, responsible for 20% of global copper output. The International Copper Study Group (ICSG) now forecasts a refined copper surplus of 96,000 tons for 2026, down from earlier deficit predictions, as demand growth slows amid geopolitical tensions.
The situation presents mixed implications for African producers, with expected price increases offset by supply chain vulnerabilities. Additionally, Aldoro Resources claims to have discovered the largest known strontium resource in Namibia, potentially diversifying Africa's critical mineral production.
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