Zambia Aims for 3 Million Tonnes Copper Production by 2031 with Increased Lime Supply

Zambia's copper production is set to increase significantly, requiring more lime, particularly quicklime, for metallurgical processes. The country aims to achieve a target of three million metric tonnes of copper by 2031. While Zambia has local lime producers, it has historically relied on imports from South Africa. New entrants like Firering Strategic Minerals are working to boost local production and decrease dependency on imports, managing the Limeco Resources project near Lusaka, which aims for 600 to 800 tonnes of quicklime daily by Q1 2026.

Published Mar 23, 2026

Zambia's copper mining sector is heavily reliant on lime, particularly quicklime, to support a production target of three million metric tonnes by 2031. Quicklime is essential for neutralizing acid and removing impurities during copper production.

AI-curated by Theia

Despite having some local lime quarries, Zambia has largely depended on imports from South Africa. Local companies like Limestone Resources and new entrants such as Firering Strategic Minerals are increasing domestic production. Firering oversees the Limeco Resources project, which aims to produce 600 to 800 tonnes of quicklime daily by the first quarter of 2026, reducing reliance on imports.