Copper Products

At Steencore, copper is a cornerstone of our operations and the broader industrial ecosystem. It plays an essential role across diverse sectors, including electrical wiring, electronics, construction, transportation, and countless consumer products. Copper’s exceptional electrical and thermal conductivity, paired with its ductility, makes it indispensable for power generation, transmission, and the fast-growing renewable energy sector. As the global economy shifts toward sustainability and electrification, copper’s critical role in green industrial development becomes increasingly vital.

Navigating Market Volatility and Global Challenges

The copper market has faced significant volatility in recent years, driven by macroeconomic and geopolitical factors. The COVID-19 pandemic initially reduced demand in 2020 due to slowed industrial activity, but the sector quickly rebounded. Government stimulus packages and a surge in infrastructure projects—focused on renewable energy, electric vehicle (EV) production, and digital transformation—fueled this recovery.

Steencore understands the complex supply and demand dynamics shaping the copper market. Much of global copper production is concentrated in regions like Chile, Peru, and China, where political instability, stringent environmental regulations, and labor unrest often disrupt operations. These challenges, combined with the industry’s ongoing struggle with declining ore grades, create supply constraints that drive price fluctuations. To address these risks, Steencore employs strategic sourcing, robust risk management, and investments in cutting-edge extraction and processing technologies.

Sustainable Mining and Technological Advancements

Steencore is committed to responsible sourcing and sustainable practices, embedding stringent environmental, social, and governance (ESG) standards across our copper supply chain. We partner with mining entities dedicated to minimizing environmental impact through responsible water use, effective tailings management, and adherence to global sustainability guidelines. With regulatory pressures on the mining industry intensifying, we proactively adopt practices that balance long-term sustainability with operational efficiency.

Technological innovation is pivotal to the future of copper production. Advances like hydrometallurgical extraction, solvent extraction-electrowinning (SX-EW) processes, and the integration of renewable energy into mining operations help overcome challenges such as declining ore grades and rising costs. These innovations boost extraction efficiency while supporting global efforts to cut carbon emissions and promote a circular economy.

Operational Excellence in Africa

Steencore’s dedication to sustainable and efficient copper production shines through in our operations in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Zambia—regions boasting some of the world’s richest copper deposits. Despite challenges like infrastructure limitations and the need for sustainable development, we collaborate with local mining partners to extract copper ore using environmentally responsible methods. This ore is then processed into concentrates, a crucial intermediate product with higher copper content, ready for refining.

To ensure a seamless supply chain, Steencore has established strategic partnerships with regional refineries. By securing dedicated slots for processing our concentrates, we produce high-quality copper cathodes and blisters—refined products essential for industrial applications. This integrated approach enhances operational efficiency and guarantees our clients a reliable supply of premium copper products, even amid market disruptions.

This end-to-end management of the supply chain is a cornerstone of Steencore’s value proposition. Clients gain transparency into the production process, assurance of product quality, and reduced exposure to supply chain risks. Furthermore, our investments in local infrastructure and community development in the DRC and Zambia bolster economic growth and social well-being, aligning with our ESG commitments. By delivering both operational excellence and sustainable impact, Steencore strengthens the global copper supply chain.

Copper: Powering the Future of Clean Energy

Copper’s role in the clean energy transition is undeniable. At Steencore, we recognize the surging demand for copper in renewable energy systems—wind turbines, solar panels, and electric vehicles all rely heavily on it. As electric mobility and renewable power generation expand worldwide, copper demand will skyrocket. For example, EVs use roughly four times more copper than conventional vehicles, and renewable energy infrastructure depends on copper for efficient energy transmission and grid stability.

We work closely with partners in the clean energy and electric mobility sectors to provide a steady, sustainable copper supply. Steencore’s expertise in the metals supply chain empowers us to support the electrification of transportation and the growth of renewable energy networks globally.

Currency Fluctuations and Global Trade Dynamics

Copper is traded worldwide in US dollars, making it sensitive to currency fluctuations. A weaker dollar typically boosts demand by making copper more affordable for international buyers, while a stronger dollar can suppress demand in emerging markets where import costs rise. Steencore navigates these dynamics with hedging strategies and a diversified portfolio, ensuring effective management of price volatility.

Strategic Outlook for Copper

The copper market blends short-term volatility with robust long-term potential. Supply chain disruptions—from labor strikes to natural disasters—can spark short-term price swings. Yet, the long-term outlook remains strongly positive, propelled by the global shift toward decarbonization and renewable energy. Steencore leads this transformation, delivering a secure, high-quality copper supply to meet our clients’ industrial, technological, and environmental needs.

Through our strategic operations in Africa and unwavering commitment to excellence, Steencore is poised to meet the rising global demand for copper. As the world moves toward a sustainable, electrified future, we remain dedicated to supplying top-tier copper products while upholding our responsibilities to the environment and the communities we serve. Our expertise, paired with a focus on innovation and sustainability, positions Steencore as a trusted partner in the evolving copper supply chain.