LUSAKA, Jan. 27 (Xinhua) -- Zambia, Africa's second-largest copper producer, produced about 890,346 metric tons of copper in 2025, according to official figures released Tuesday.

This represents an 8 percent increase from the 825,513 metric tons produced in 2024.

Minister of Mines and Minerals Development Paul Kabuswe attributed the increase to improved performance at major copper mines, including Mopani Copper Mines, Konkola Copper Mines, and Kansanshi Copper Mines.

He also credited government policies aimed at reviving mining firms that had been facing operational challenges.

"The sector continued to experience growth through investments and expansion by large-scale mining companies and global developments," Kabuswe told reporters during a press briefing in Lusaka, the country's capital.

Furthermore, he noted that the government's major focus is to achieve copper production of 3 million metric tons by 2031. ■