1. CHILE
Leading the list of top copper producers in the world, Chile is responsible for approximately 30% of the worldwide copper production, amounting to 5.7 million tonnes in 2024. The country’s vast and robust mining infrastructure, particularly in the Atacama Desert, is a key driving factor behind its leading position in copper production. Top mines include the Escondida copper mine, the world’s largest, and the Collahuasi mine.
2. PERU
Peru is positioned as the world’s second-largest copper producer, achieving a total output of 2.3 million tonnes in 2024. Its rich geological makeup, filled with several copper-rich deposits, has made Peru a significant player in the international copper market. Major copper mines in Peru are Antamina, Cerro Verde, and Las Bambas.
3. CHINA
China slips into the third spot with an output of 1.7 million tonnes of copper production in 2024. Despite needed importations to support its vast manufacturing sector, China owns several prominent mines, like the Jiangxi Copper Mine and the Zijinshan Copper Mine. These local resources contribute significantly to the nation’s copper production.
4. UNITED STATES
The United States of America follows closely behind with an annual estimated output of 1.25 million tonnes of copper in 2024. It’s rich with several large-scale, modern mines, including the Morenci mine in Arizona and the Bingham Canyon mine in Utah, the largest man-made excavation in the world.
5. CONGO (DRC)
Thanks to its vast resources, the Democratic Republic of Congo occupies the fifth position in the world rankings, with copper production reaching 1.2 million tonnes in 2024. The country has multiple high-grade copper mines, such as Kamoa-Kakula, which is considered one of the largest high-grade copper deposits worldwide.
6. AUSTRALIA
Australia, renowned for its abundant natural resources, ranks sixth on the list, generating an output of 960,000 tonnes of copper in 2024. Major mines, including the Olympic Dam in South Australia and the Cadia mine in New South Wales, significantly contribute to the nation’s copper production.
7. RUSSIA
Despite the long winter hindering mining activities, Russia has managed to produce 850,000 tonnes of copper in 2024, making it the seventh-largest producer globally. Top producers like Nor