Country Report
Global copper smelter and refinery cost summary
*Please note that this report only includes an Excel data file if this is indicated in "What's included" below
Report summary
In this update of the Global Copper Smelter and Refinery Asset Summary, we examine the key trends and significant developments shaping this industry as of Q3 2025. With this quarterly update, the weighted average DCC of costed smelters was revised to 19.2 c/lb Cu in 2025, an overall reduction of 0.2 c/lb Cu compared to 2024, driven by marginally lower energy input costs. Furthermore, supported by a moderately bullish outlook for sulphuric acid prices in 2025, sulphur credits are expected to rise to 9.8 c/lb Cu, up from 8.5 c/lb Cu in 2024. The average DCC for refineries is expected to edge down from 4.69 c/lb Cu in 2024 to 4.67 c/lb Cu in 2025. The attached files include a summary report and two interactive data packs. This data can be easily manipulated using personalised tables and charts, allowing the user to focus on the custom elements of the smelter and refinery analysis. If you have any feedback or questions, please contact support@woodmac.com or guillermo.parra@woodac.com
Table of contents
- We have updated our analysis of copper smelter and refinery assets as of Q3 2025. These are the key takeaways for the copper smelting sector:
- Key takeaways for the copper refining sector :
- Updated analysis and data, Q3 2025
Tables and charts
No table or charts specified
What's included
This report contains:
Other reports you may be interested in
Country Report
Global alumina refinery asset cost summary
The Global Alumina Asset Summary examines the cost environment in the base year as well as historically and forward five years.
$6,750
Asset Report
Gaston (closed) copper refinery
A detailed analysis of the Gaston copper refinery.
$2,250
Asset Report
Heding copper refinery
Heding refinery was expanded to 350 ktpa in 2017.
$2,250
