Zambia Small-Scale Miners Warn of Possible Shutdowns as Sulphuric Acid Shortage Persists

Published: Aug 28, 2026 16:52

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Small and medium-sized mining companies in Zambia are continuing to struggle with access to sulphuric acid, with some operators warning that they could suspend operations if shortages persist, according to the United Mineworkers Union of Zambia (UMUZ). UMUZ President Yosam Nyirongo said miners have been unable to secure consistent supplies of the reagent, which is an important input in copper leaching and processing, placing additional pressure on production and operating costs. Importantly, Nyirongo said no mining companies have officially shut down as a result of the shortage so far, but some members have indicated that continued supply constraints could eventually force closures.

Nyirongo attributed part of the pressure on domestic availability to continued sulphuric acid exports to the Democratic Republic of Congo, and called on the government to prioritize Zambia's domestic requirements before allowing exports. He also raised concerns about intermediaries purchasing acid and reselling it at higher prices, arguing that this was contributing to higher operating costs for smaller mining companies. The union had already raised similar concerns in July, when it called for restrictions on acid exports until domestic demand could be adequately supplied.

The latest warning comes amid broader indications that the shortage is already affecting Zambia's smaller copper producers. Recent reporting citing government officials identified limited availability of sulphuric acid as a major factor behind declining copper production among small-scale miners, alongside regulatory-compliance issues. Sulphuric acid is particularly important for operations using leaching-based processing routes, making reliable supply critical for maintaining output at such facilities.

The latest warning does not indicate an immediate loss of Zambian copper supply, since no mine closures have yet been confirmed. However, persistent sulphuric acid shortages represent a potential downside risk for smaller leaching operations if producers are unable to obtain sufficient volumes at economically viable prices. Continued competition between domestic consumers and export demand from the DRC could therefore remain an important factor to watch for Zambia's small- and medium-scale copper production.

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