KCM Regains LME ‘REC’ Brand, Cementing Commitment to Ethical Copper Production
Konkola Copper Mines plc (KCM) has announced that the London Metal Exchange (LME) has reinstated its Copper Grade A “REC” brand, restoring the company’s full market status.
The reinstatement follows a comprehensive independent audit conducted under the Responsible Minerals Assurance Process (RMAP) by the Responsible Minerals Initiative (RMI). The audit confirmed that KCM fully complies with internationally recognised standards for responsible sourcing, supply chain transparency, and due diligence.
“This reinstatement is a strong endorsement of KCM’s transformation and our uncompromising commitment to responsible mining,” said Acting CEO Malcolm Mewett. “Meeting the RMI’s rigorous standards sends a clear signal to global customers and partners: KCM is a trusted and reliable supplier of high-quality, ethically produced copper cathodes.”
The decision coincides with KCM’s ongoing efforts to accelerate production and modernise operations, reinforcing its position as a key contributor to Zambia’s mining sector and the global transition towards sustainable resource development.
KCM expressed gratitude to the LME, the RMI, and its stakeholders for their support throughout the audit and reinstatement process, noting that the recognition marks a pivotal milestone in the company’s operational recovery and governance transformation.
Konkola Copper Mines, a subsidiary of Vedanta Resources (79.4%) and ZCCM-IH (20.6%), operates across Chingola, Chililabombwe, Kitwe, and Nampundwe, and is committed to responsible mining, community development, and supporting Zambia’s ambition to reach three million tonnes of copper production annually by 2030.
