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Glencore to Restart Alumbrera in 2026, Targets Copper Output in 2028

The company points to accelerating copper demand to support the plan.

Overview

  • Glencore lays out a staged schedule with site works through 2026–2027, operations restarting in late 2026, first production in the first half of 2028, and peak activity in 2029–2030.
  • Employment is set to rise from roughly 400 workers on site today with 150–200 hires planned in 2026 and a projected peak workforce near 900 at full ramp-up.
  • Initial spending will refurbish the concentrator, mineroduct and filter plant, with Glencore prioritizing local suppliers and training to meet safety and quality standards.
  • The reopening is framed as a bridge to the larger Agua Rica development, enabling a planned transition of labor as that project targets production around 2030.
  • The company estimates Alumbrera could produce about 75,000 tonnes of copper plus byproducts over roughly four years once online.