Top-10 Copper Producing Countries in the World

Copper is a vital metal used in various industries, including electronics, construction, and transportation. It plays a crucial role in the global economy, and several countries are leading producers of this essential resource. This article highlights the top-10 copper-producing countries in the world, based on their annual output.

Global Copper Production

According to the latest US Geological Survey data, global copper production reached 22 million metric tons (MT) in 2023. This significant output highlights the critical role copper plays in various industries, including electronics, construction, and renewable energy, fueling global economic growth.

Top-10 Copper Producing Countries in the World

Chile with the annual copper production of 5.62 million metric tons, stands as the largest copper producing country in the world, followed by Peru, China, and Democratic Republic of Congo.

Here is the list of top-10 copper producing countries in the world:

World’s Largest Copper Producer – Chile

Copper production: 5.62 million metric tons

Chile remains the world’s leading copper producer, with an output of 5.62 million metric tonnes in 2024, contributing 23% to global production. Despite recent declines, industry analysts predict a 2.2% CAGR from 2022 to 2026, expecting Chile’s copper production to reach 6.4 million metric tonnes. Chile’s vast reserves of 200 million metric tonnes and major mines like Escondida, the largest contributor, underpin its dominance in the copper industry.

Second Largest Copper Producing Country in the World – Peru

Copper Production: 2.2 million metric tons

In 2024, Peru secured its position as the world’s second-largest copper producer, with 2.2 million metric tonnes produced in 2023. Major mines like Cerro Verde, Antamina, and Las Bambas, owned by Freeport-McMoRan, Glencore, and MMG, drive production. Peru’s copper output rebounded by 7% in 2021 and is forecasted to increase by 4.8% by the end of 2023. The country holds third-largest reserves globally, totaling 77 million metric tonnes.

World’s Third Largest Copper Producer – China

Copper production: 1.8 million metric tons

China emerged as the world’s third-largest copper producer, with 1.8 million metric tonnes produced in 2023. Despite its high production capacity, China faces substantial copper demand, with 72.2% of its needs met through imports in 2022. The Tibetan Yulong mine, China’s largest, produced over 1.1 million tonnes in 2023 but is expected to deplete by 2036.