China on the path to self-sufficiency in copper and aluminum

In recent years, China has been actively increasing its copper and aluminum production, aiming to reduce its reliance on imports and meet the rapidly growing domestic demand. However, despite the development of its own mining sector, the country remains the largest global importer of these metals, compensating for the raw material deficit through supplies from Latin America, Africa, and Australia.

Against the backdrop of the growth of infrastructure projects, the development of the electric vehicle industry, and green energy, the demand for copper and aluminum in China is steadily increasing. Mining is accompanied by the implementation of advanced technologies, making production more efficient and environmentally safe.

The largest copper deposits in China

China's annual copper production is around 1.8–2.0 million tons, covering 30% of domestic demand. The main deposits are located in the southern and western regions of the country:

• Yunnan – the largest copper-producing region in China, accounting for up to 20% of the country's output. In 2024, copper production here reached 1.4 million tons of concentrate.
• Jiangxi – home to one of the largest copper mines in Asia, Dexin (annual production – 1 million tons).
• Tibet – the Jianda deposit, developed since the 1990s, extracts about 45,000 tons of copper annually.
• Inner Mongolia – the Bayin Obo area is known for its high copper and rare earth element concentrations.
• Guangxi – active mining has been taking place since the 1960s, with total copper production exceeding 500,000 tons per year.
• Sichuan – the Muli deposit, rich in both copper and molybdenum.
• Anhui – the city of Tongling is an important center for copper processing into finished products.

Key regions of aluminum extraction in China

China is the undisputed leader in bauxite extraction and aluminum production. In 2023, the primary aluminum production volume exceeded 39 million tons, and bauxite extraction reached 90 million tons. The main mining regions include:

• Shandong – the largest region for bauxite extraction, with an annual production volume of 20–25 million tons.
• Guizhou – known for its high-quality bauxite, producing 10–15 million tons per year.
• Henan – one of the oldest mining centers, with an annual output of about 10 million tons.
• Shanxi – a resource-rich region, extracting 7–10 million tons per year.
• Guangxi – the Baise area plays a key role, providing 5–7 million tons of bauxite annually.

Due to the strategic development of mining and processing, China not only meets its own needs but also exerts a significant influence on global aluminum prices.

Technological innovations in mining and processing

Chinese companies are actively implementing the latest technologies to enhance production efficiency and reduce their environmental footprint.

Automation and digitalization of mines

• Autonomous equipment – autonomous dump trucks and robotic excavators enhance safety and productivity.
• Internet of Things (IoT) – sensors monitor equipment, ore quality, and environmental conditions in real time.
• Digital twins – 3D modeling of deposits allows for more accurate forecasting of reserves and better planning of extraction.

Clean energy

• Hydroelectric power plants – more than 60% of China’s aluminum is produced in plants that use hydroelectric energy.
• Solar and wind energy – aluminum and copper companies are implementing renewable energy sources to reduce their carbon footprint.

Recycling and reuse

• Metal recovery from scrap – up to 95% of copper and aluminum is recycled.
• Vacuum recycling of aluminum slag – reduces losses and minimizes emissions.
• Zero-waste programs – by-products of recycling (slags, dust) are turned into valuable secondary resources.

The future of China’s copper and aluminum industry

The growing demand for copper and aluminum in China is driven by the development of electric vehicles, renewable energy, and infrastructure. The cable industry remains a key consumer of these metals, supporting the expansion of capacities and modernization of production.

Technological advancements in mining and processing allow China to reduce its dependence on imports, lower costs, and minimize environmental damage. In the coming years, China will continue to increase its production by investing in advanced methods of mineral extraction and recycling of secondary raw materials.

Thus, China is not only strengthening its position in the global metals market but also laying the foundation for sustainable and environmentally responsible development of the metallurgical industry.