Peru's copper production reaches a record in 2025 with 2.77 million MT

Copper production in Peru reached a new historical high in 2025, registering a total of 2,769,794 metric tons of fine copper (MTFC), according to information from the Ministry of Energy and Mines (Minem). This result positions 2025 as the year with the highest copper production in the country's recent history, surpassing the levels reached in 2023 and 2024.

According to the Mining Statistical Bulletin (BEM) prepared by the General Directorate of Mining Promotion and Sustainability of Minem, the sector's performance was influenced by favorable external conditions, mainly linked to the behavior of international metal prices. This context allowed for the sustainment of investment plans and operations in various mining units nationwide.

In December 2025, copper production reached 256,647 MT, representing an increase of 18.61% compared to November of the same year, reflecting a recovery in production levels toward the end of the period.

At the regional level, Moquegua remained the country’s leading copper producer, accounting for 17.21% of the national total, followed by Arequipa with 14.91%. Apurímac and Áncash also stand out, contributing 14.81% and 14.61%, respectively.

Other metals also recorded growth

The MINEM report also highlights positive results in the production of various metals during the last month of the year. In December 2025, zinc production increased by 17.21 TP3T compared to the same month of the previous year, while lead production rose by 1.51 TP3T.

In the case of iron, production increased by 14.01 metric tons, while tin production rose by 22.11 metric tons compared to December 2024.

On a year-to-date basis, zinc production increased by 18.61 million metric tons compared to 2024, while lead production rose by 7.21 million metric tons and tin production by 4.61 million metric tons.

Silver, meanwhile, posted annual growth of 7.11% in the third quarter, while gold production showed a slight decline of 0.71% in the third quarter compared with the previous year.

The results reflect the overall performance of Peruvian metal mining during 2025, in a context marked by relatively favorable international conditions that contributed to sustaining the sector's activity.