The Ministry of Mines and Minerals Development of Zambia has announced that the Luanshya Copper Mine will restart production at its upper section in August 2026 following the completion of dewatering operations.
China Nonferrous Mining Corporation (CNMC) acquired the Luanshya mine in 2009 and holds an 80% stake.
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Production at the lower section is scheduled for 2029, as redevelopment of the 28 Shaft by China Luanshya Mine (CLM) progresses.
The development of the new Luanshya mines consists of two phases, focusing initially on the upper mine before progressing to the lower section.
As of 27 March 2026, approximately 87.9 million cubic metres of water had been evacuated, clearing the way for ongoing infrastructure and construction work.
The ministry also reported that the 580-megalitre pump chamber was commissioned on 31 March 2026 and is now operational, supporting redevelopment activities.
Once fully operational, the mine is expected to produce around 100,000 tonnes per annum (tpa) of copper by 2030, supporting Zambia’s national copper production targets.
The project has created 883 contractor jobs, with total employment projected to increase to roughly 3,000 at peak operations, strengthening economic activity in Luanshya and surrounding areas.
The redevelopment of the 28 Shaft involves an investment of roughly $710m (4.85bn yuan), covering new shaft systems, a concentrator plant and associated infrastructure. Currently, more than $75m has been invested.
Furthermore, CLM is considering a potential collaboration with ZCCM Investments Holdings to explore mining prospects in newly acquired areas in the region.
The government highlighted its commitment to revitalising the mining sector to enhance employment opportunities and ensure that the benefits of Zambia’s mineral resources are shared.
