Chile copper miners adopt new technologies and cost discipline as demand rises

Mining companies in Chile are redesigning copper concentrators to meet the growing demand for the metal in the energy transition. Ausenco’s Technology Solutions Director for South America, Sergio Lagos, highlighted the shift from simply expanding capacity to integrating advanced sensors and bulk‑ore sorting systems that separate low‑grade material early, improving water and energy efficiency and operational flexibility. He noted, “Hace algunos años el foco estaba principalmente en aumentar capacidad y escala de procesamiento. Hoy las operaciones enfrentan minerales más complejos y restricciones operacionales mayores, lo que obliga a incorporar nuevos procesos y tecnologías desde las etapas iniciales de diseño.”

Antofagasta Minerals reported consistent second‑quarter results, with fine copper production of 285,000 t in the first half of 2026, a 9.5% decline year‑on‑year due to lower output at Los Pelambres and Centinela. The company emphasized disciplined cost control, stating, “Logramos resultados consistentes durante el segundo trimestre… con foco en controlar los costos.” It expects total 2026 production of 650,000‑700,000 t and is advancing projects such as a long‑term water‑supply solution at Zaldívar and pre‑commissioning work on a second Centinela concentrator, aiming to extend mine life to 2051.