Copper Cathode Production Dips in April, May Forecast Lower

Published: May 6, 2026 16:58

Save

[SMM Copper Update] Copper cathode production in April came in at 1.1789 million mt, down 27,200 mt MoM. Cumulative production from January to April reached 4.7067 million mt. Copper cathode production in May is expected to come in at 1.1675 million mt, down 11,400 mt MoM.

Data Source Statement: Except for publicly available information, all other data are processed by SMM based on publicly available information, market communication, and relying on SMM‘s internal database model. They are for reference only and do not constitute decision-making recommendations.

For any inquiries or to learn more information, please contact: lemonzhao@smm.cn

For more information on how to access our research reports, please contact:service.en@smm.cn

Related News

Common.Time.minsAgo

Rio Tinto Rallies on AI-Driven Copper Demand Optimism

Rio Tinto shares jumped as investors bet on rising copper demand from AI infrastructure and electrification. The company is also advancing the Resolution Copper project with BHP , strengthening its long-term copper strategy.

Common.Time.minsAgo

[SMM Copper Flash] Some Enterprises in DRC Produce Sulfuric Acid from Sulfur with Supporting Steam Power Generation

Some enterprises in DRC produce sulfuric acid from sulfur with supporting steam power generation. A SX-EW copper smelter stated that acid plants with capacity above 100,000 mt can achieve steam power generation that covers acid production costs.

Common.Time.minsAgo

[SMM Copper Flash] High Diesel Power Generation Costs in DRC Put SX-EW Copper Smelters Under Pressure

According to SMM's on-site survey, diesel prices in the DRC have reached above $3.2/liter. Based on the conversion rate of 1 liter of diesel generating 3 kWh of electricity, diesel power generation costs in the DRC are around $1/kWh. Combined with the sharp rise in sulphuric acid prices, this has brought enormous cost pressure to SX-EW copper smelters that need to purchase ore externally, with some smelters reporting they are operating at a loss.

Common.Time.minsAgo