The Zambia Development Agency has claimed that the country’s copper output is likely to rise over the next year, with the eventual outturn being 17% higher than the current figure.

The claims come amidst a background wherein international metal prices rise and mining units are increasing their output to meet the increased demand.

Caleb Fundanga, who is the country’s Central Bank Governor, claims the copper output is expected to rise to 900,000 tonnes over an 830,000 tonne output last year. Metal production in general is also projected to triple to 5 million tonnes by 2015.

Global copper prices have hit an all time high as increased demand is not being met by the supply. This has led to a situation wherein Zambia can capitalise on its copper reserves and take advantage of the increase in prices.