Stock image. US tariffs on copper look increasingly unlikely after Washington opted to prioritize supply negotiations over trade penalties for processed critical minerals, Macquarie said, a stance that could eventually unwind stockpiles built on fears of import restrictions.

Antofagasta on Thursday reported a 1.6% fall in 2025 copper production to 653 700 metric tons, missing its guidance, as higher output at key projects was offset by lower ore grades.

Copper prices hit a record high of more than $14 000 a metric ton on Thursday, as speculators extended their buying spree, encouraged by expectations of strong demand and supported by a weak dollar and geopolitical concerns.

Chile’s Codelco and SQM completed a landmark deal aimed at boosting lithium extraction from the country’s Atacama Desert, giving the government control of one of the world’s richest reserves of the metal.

Global commodities trader and miner Glencore has agreed to acquire a majority stake in Dutch fuel supplier FincoEnergies for an undisclosed sum, the Dutch company said on Monday.

The German government is in talks with Canadian firm Troilus Mining Corp. to fund investment in a large mining project, helping secure copper supplies that are key to the energy transition.

A Russian court has ruled in favour of Rusal in the aluminium giant's 104.75-billion-rouble ($1.32-billion) lawsuit against global mining and metals company Rio Tinto, according to court documents.

Copper is closing in on the $12 000 a metric ton mark as expectations of soaring demand from data centres that power artificial intelligence and tight supplies collide with shortages outside the US.

A BHP Group venture submitted an application to join Argentina’s investment incentives programe for a project in an area it hopes will be the next major production hub for copper.

Kropz has reported that its subsidiary Kropz Elandsfontein and ARC Fund have agreed to a R250-million loan facility.