Ivanhoe Mines powers ahead with strong Q2 2026 production and innovations
In the second quarter of 2026, Ivanhoe Mines made significant progress at its Kamoa-Kakula copper project in Africa. The company produced a total of 64,328 tonnes of copper, combining outputs from copper concentrate, anode, and blister copper. Despite a temporary shutdown of the Lualaba Copper Smelter, operations quickly resumed, keeping production on track.
The team milled nearly 3 million tonnes of ore and saw strong performance from Africa’s largest copper smelter, which also produced 112,307 tonnes of high-strength sulphuric acid, with July contracts priced around US$840 per tonne. Looking ahead, copper production is expected to rise in the second half of 2026, driven by a planned 30% increase in mining rates to 8.5 million tonnes per annum and improved recovery from completed projects.
In addition to copper, Ivanhoe’s other operations showed promising results: Kipushi achieved a record 70,177 tonnes of zinc concentrate, and Platreef completed ramp-up of its new Shaft #3, with expansion plans on track for late 2027. The company also advanced its sustainability efforts by commissioning a 60-MW solar power facility expected to reach full capacity by the end of Q3.
As Ivanhoe prepares to release its Q2 financial results on 29th July 2026, investors are optimistic about the company’s growth, operational resilience, and commitment to sustainable mining practices.
