Copper miner Antofagasta maintains guidance

Chilean copper miner Antofagasta has maintained its guidance at the lower-end of its original target range for the year, having gained experience in working safely in the new era of Covid-19.

The company is operating close to forecast production levels, CEO Ivan Arriagada said on Wednesday, announcing half-year output of 371 700 t, which is in line with its expectations and 4% lower than in the same period last year.

Antofagasta has managed to expand its activity in areas that it initially restricted, such as mine development and maintenance, he said. “We believe we can continue to operate at current levels until the end of the year, assuming no further Covid-19 related restrictions are imposed.”