Ecuador Aims to Boost Copper Exports by 10–14% in 2025

Ecuador Copper Mining

Power Stability Set to Restore Ecuador's Copper Output

Ecuador plans to increase copper exports by 10–14% in 2025, targeting a return to 2023 shipment levels. Vice Minister of Mining Rebeca Illescas confirmed the outlook, following a 14% export decline in 2024 due to power outages.

The Mirador mine, operated by Chinese-owned Ecsa-Ecuacorriente, contributes over 90% of Ecuador's copper concentrate output. Severe drought in late 2024 slashed hydropower supply and triggered 88 days of scheduled electricity cuts, impacting mining productivity. Now, the mine has restored full power and is importing thermoelectric systems to ensure stability by May.

Infrastructure and Weather Challenges Still Linger

Ecuador rented 1GW of thermoelectric capacity to prevent further blackouts, said Vice Minister of Electricity Fabian Calero. This improved stability has already helped copper exports rebound in early 2025, with January shipments up 38% from December.

However, copper export volumes in January were still 37% lower than the same month in 2024. Heavy rains in early 2025 damaged transportation infrastructure, further limiting copper movement to export terminals. Despite lower volumes, improved pricing led to a 40% month-on-month increase in export value, reaching $110 million in January.

Ecsa contributed $53 million in royalties for 2023–2024 copper exports, marking a 29% increase over the prior period.

The Metalnomist Commentary

Ecuador's strategy to stabilize copper exports underscores the growing linkage between energy resilience and mineral trade flows. With Chinese investment entrenched in Ecuador's copper mining and export network, the success of thermoelectric backup systems will shape the country's ability to compete as a regional copper supplier—especially as Peru and Chile face their own bottlenecks. Prices remain strong, but risks from climate and logistics persist.