In 2004, to make full use of the waste ore resources from the Chambishi copper mine, CNMC invested $19 million to build Chambishi wet-processing smelting plant, which was completed in 2006 and now produces 7,000 tons of cathode copper each year. The project, representing the start of a recycling economy, was praised by the local government and people for its energy-saving and environmental protection benefits. 

The Zambia Luanshya Copper Mine, now one of the country's top three copper mines, was once forced to stop production for lack of funds. In 2009, after winning support from the Zambian Government, CNMC invested $50 million to acquire 80 percent of the mine's stake and put another $74 million in place to restore its operation.

During the most difficult period of financial crisis, CNMC adhered to its commitment of "not reducing production and investment and not dismissing any staff" to local people, earning their acknowledgement and trust. Now the mine can produce 100,000 tons of copper concentrates annually.

Special Economic Zone

The China-Zambia Economic and Trade Cooperation Zone, launched in 2007, is another example of CNMC's dedication to local development. It ushered in a new way for Chinese enterprises to conduct overseas investment. To date 13 enterprises have entered the zone, bringing in a total investment of $1 billion. The China-Zambia Friendship Hospital, the second largest hospital in Zambia, sits in the zone, providing high-quality medical service for local people.

By 2010, the economic zone had accumulated revenue of $2.5 billion. The 2012 target for the zone is to attract at least 60 enterprises and $800 million investment, Tao Xinghu, Deputy General Manager of CNMC told ChinAfrica.  He said the company emphasized its social responsibilities, production safety and environmental protection.

"By 2010, CNMC's investment in Zambia had totaled $1.1 billion, turning in $50 million in taxes, offering about 6,500 jobs for Zambian people and donating $5 million for various social charity work," Tao said.

The company will invest a further $1 billion in Africa in the next three years, increasing its total investment in the continent to $2.5 billion and creating 10,000 more jobs for local people, Tao added.