Tanzania Opens First Copper Processing Plant to Boost Exports

Tanzania Copper Mining

Tanzania has officially launched its first copper processing plant, signaling its ambition to become a major African copper exporter. The new facility, located in Chunya district, Mbeya region, was inaugurated by Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa and is operated by Mineral Access Systems Tanzania (Mast).

Tanzania’s Strategic Move into Copper Processing

The copper processing plant is a milestone in Tanzania’s industrial development, moving the nation away from exporting raw minerals. The facility will process low-grade copper ore containing 0.5–2pc copper into concentrate with up to 75pc purity using leaching and cementation technology. The plant’s capacity is 31,200 t/month, with 27,200t supplied from Mast’s own mine and 4,000t sourced from small-scale miners.

Expanding Domestic Copper Potential

Mast has announced plans to build three more processing plants in Manyara, Ruvuma, and Dodoma, strengthening the country’s copper production capacity. While Tanzania has traditionally focused on gold mining, rising copper prices and global demand are shifting priorities toward copper as a strategic resource. International companies are also entering the market, including Resource Mining, which has acquired copper-gold projects in Mpanda and Mbozi.

The Metalnomist Commentary

Tanzania’s new copper processing facility highlights its determination to diversify beyond gold and capture value from rising copper demand. By investing in midstream capacity and encouraging small-scale miners, the country strengthens its position in Africa’s copper supply chain. Long-term success will depend on sustaining investment and ensuring reliable infrastructure.