Kazakhmys copper smelting plant to be reconstructed

ZCSP will be put to reconstruction tentatively from September 1 after completion of all necessary technical procedures. The company has come to the decision to restorate the plant based on copper smelting capacity anlaysis. The current technology used in electrosmelting process (ore-treatment furnace) is designed for smelting of Zhezkazgan deposit concentrate and is not suitable for Bozshakol ore and other developing projects' raw material treatment.

Kazakhmys does not plan staff cuts due to the reconstruction. ZCSP involves 1767 employees. Concentrate shipment will attract 61 workers. Another 200 employees for the period of the reconstruction will be offered jobs at the Bozshakol plant. The remaining 65-70% of plant employees will be involved in the part-time work during reconstruction.

During the renovation new technology will be worked to be involved in the production of Zhezkazgan field off-balanced ores and Bozshakol concentrate which annual output will be more than 100,000 tons of copper in concentrate. Suspension will not affect commitments to the plant consumers. Kazakhmys will fulfill all contractual obligations for the current year.