Vedanta Resources announced copper production of Zambia for Q3 2011. During Q3, production of mined metal was 24,000 tonnes. Integrated copper cathode production was 37,000 tonnes, 9% higher than the corresponding prior period, which included 10,000 tonnes from the tailing leach plant. Total finished copper production was 51,000 tonnes, 7% lower than the corresponding prior period due to a fall in custom smelting production which was affected by an annual shutdown of the Nchanga smelter during the quarter. During the nine month period, production of mined metal was 76,000 tonnes. Total copper cathode production was 9% lower at 153,000 tonnes, while integrated copper production was 5% higher at 105,000 tonnes which included 34,000 tonnes from the TLP. Custom smelting production was 30% lower at 48,000 tonnes. EBITDA in Q3 was USD 67.7 million as compared with USD 143.4 million in the corresponding prior period mainly on account of lower LME prices and a provision for higher power costs. The Nchanga East Concentrator was commissioned in January 2012 and trials are underway. The second cobalt recovery furnace and the Nchanga West Concentrator are expected to be commissioned in the current quarter and Q1 FY 2012 to 2013 respectively. At KDMP, work is progressing on schedule, and bottom shaft loading is expected to be completed by Q3 FY 2012 to 2013.

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