Peru's copper output reached 563,989 fine metric tons (FMT) in the first three months of the year, a 9.62% rise over the same period in 2016, the Energy and Mines Ministry (MEM) informed.
In a report, the Ministry affirms polymetallic production in central Peru "maintains important growth rates" despite the effects of Coastal El Niño phenomenon disasters.
As is known, the Inca country was recently at the mercy of torrential rains, landslides and floods that blocked key roads for the transport of concentrates.
As for month-to-month results, national copper output in March (189,390 FMT) increased 6.23% over the previous month, and 0.71% over the same period in 2016.
Peru's copper production in the analyzed period was led by southern Arequipa region, which accounted for 21.96% of the result.
Copper producers
In terms of producing companies, the ranking was led by Cerro Verde mining company, which contributed 21.89% of the national copper output.
In this sense, multinational Freeport-McMoRan —owner of a 53.56% stake in Cerro Verde— recently said results of the first quarter were affected by rains, as well as a 21-day strike by its workers.
In turn, Cerro Verde's results took a toll on Peru's main copper producing region Arequipa.
Next in line was Las Bambas mining company, which maintains the second spot making up 19.60% of the total at 110,543 FMT.
Following in third place was Antamina, with 16.54% of the national copper output at 93,261 FMT.
Copper prices
On the other hand, MEM noted the recovery of metal prices comes as a result of foreign demand in the first months of the year.
"The price [of copper] was triggered by the demand —mainly China's— as well as by expectations of higher copper imports in coming months driven by fiscal policies and the real estate upturn," the Ministry explained.
(END) DHT/MVB