Konkola Copper Mines (KCM) in its 2019 Business Development Plan intends to increase its copper production from the current 90, 000 metric tonnes in 2018 to 125,300 metric tonnes in 2019.
The mining giant also as at September 2018, was owing US$80 million to about 400 suppliers of goods and services.
Out of this number, about 91 are local suppliers who were owed about US$10.4 million of which by October, the company paid about US$3 million.
This was disclosed in parliament by Minister of Mines and Minerals Development Richard Musukwa who was responding to a question from Mufulira Member of Parliament Dr. Evans Chibanda who wanted to know how much KCM owes suppliers and contractors.
Mr. Musukwa says the current performance of KCM is worrisome but that the future is promising as seen from its Business Development Plan submitted to the government.
“Mr. Speaker, this achievement will require increased investment and the company will require US$100 million will transform the company from its quagmire,” he said on the floor of the House.