Plizio Visual Lab

Chambishi Metals Refinery

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Industrial site

Weather…

Chambishi Metals is a premier metal processing refinery in Zambia, strategically located in the Copperbelt Province between Kitwe and Chingola. The facility is internationally recognized for its specialized expertise in treating copper and cobalt concentrates, as well as its advanced techniques for recovering valuable metals from historic slag dumps. By utilizing sophisticated electric arc furnace technology, specifically the Cosac process, Chambishi Metals has achieved high levels of cobalt recovery efficiency. Historically, the refinery has served as a central hub for processing feedstock from various regional mines, including high-grade concentrates imported from the Democratic Republic of Congo. The enterprise has seen several changes in ownership, most recently associated with the Eurasian Resources Group (ERG). Its operations are vital for sustaining Zambia's position as a leading global cobalt supplier, a role increasingly important for the worldwide production of electric vehicle batteries. Beyond industrial output, Chambishi Metals is a major contributor to local employment and supports community development projects in Chambishi town. While the plant has navigated periods of market volatility and care-and-maintenance cycles, it remains a critical link in the nation's mineral value chain. The company maintains a strong focus on environmental stewardship and emission reduction standards.

Location: Zambia
Nearby: Kalulushi (20 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is May, Aug, Sep.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	21	21	21	20	18	17	17	20	24	26	24	22
Rain mm	284	209	168	42	3	1	0	2	2	21	131	271

📋 Practical info

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What is this place?

This refinery is a cornerstone of Zambia's metallurgical industry, processing cobalt and copper from regional mines. Its operations are vital for the country's export economy and global supply chains for these strategic metals.

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Visiting

The refinery grounds are not open to the public due to safety and security protocols. Visitors can typically only view the facility's exterior from the surrounding public roads.

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Where to view it

The best public viewpoints are along the main roads near the refinery's fence line, offering a distant view of the industrial structures. The smoke stacks and processing buildings are clearly visible from the Chambishi area.

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Local products

The region produces refined cobalt and copper, which are key raw materials for batteries and electronics. Local markets may sell copper crafts or souvenirs, though the refinery itself does not offer direct sales.

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Active season

Production runs continuously throughout the year, with peak activity tied to global demand cycles. The plant is most bustling when shipments of refined metals are being transported, typically on a weekly basis.

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Nearby

Combine a visit with other Copperbelt industrial sites such as the Chambishi Copper Mine or the Nkana mine. The nearby town of Kitwe provides accommodation and markets for a broader regional experience.

Geography

Coordinates

-12.63720, 28.06170

Facts

Chambishi Metals houses one of the largest slag treatment plants on the planet.
The refinery utilizes the specialized Cosac electric arc furnace for cobalt recovery.
The operation is a key asset within the Eurasian Resources Group (ERG) portfolio.
The facility is located within the Kalulushi District of the Zambian Copperbelt.
The refinery produces LME-grade copper cathodes and high-purity cobalt metal.
The historic Chambishi slag dump is estimated to hold over 20 million tonnes of material.