- Codelco's copper production reported a significant decline in January 2026, falling to 91,000 tons from 172,300 tons in December 2025, raising questions about the validity of year-end figures and the feasibility of long-term production targets.
- Former executives expressed doubts about the data and highlighted potential discrepancies, while Codelco attributed the production spike to inventory adjustments and operational improvements.
- The company's copper output is projected to recover in 2024, but skepticism remains regarding its ability to meet the 2030 target of 1.7 million tons amid ongoing structural pressures and declining ore grades.
