Sandvik secures major equipment deal for Botswana mine

JCHX Mining Management Co., Ltd., a global mining contractor headquartered in China, has awarded a significant equipment supply contract to Sandvik Mining

The agreement involves the delivery of a 32-unit underground mining equipment fleet to support operations at MMG's Khoemacau Copper Mine (KCM) in Botswana.

The order, confirmed in Q3 2025, includes a diverse and high-capacity fleet: 12 Toro TH663i trucks, 10 Toro LH621i loaders, eight Sandvik DD422i development drills, one Sandvik DL432i longhole drill, and one Sandvik Rhino 100 raise borer. Additionally, the contract incorporates Remote Monitoring Service to deliver critical operational data aimed at optimizing fleet performance. Equipment deliveries are scheduled to commence in Q3 2025 and will continue through Q2 2026.

“We are proud to partner with JCHX in delivering safe and productive operations at Khoemacau Copper Mine,” said Mats Eriksson, president of Sandvik Mining. “Our advanced underground technologies and digital solutions will help enable efficiency and performance as the site ramps up production in the coming years.”

Situated in Botswana’s Kalahari Copper Belt, Khoemacau Copper Mine is a significant underground mining operation currently undergoing major expansion. Since acquiring the mine in March 2024, operator MMG has advanced its development plans, aiming to boost annual copper production to 60,000 tonnes within two years. This goal will be supported by the existing 3.65 Mtpa process plant, with improved access to higher-grade ore zones enhancing operational flexibility and output.

Looking ahead, MMG plans to further scale up copper production to 130,000 tonnes per year by constructing a new 4.5 Mtpa processing plant. This long-term strategy includes expanding Zone 5 production and developing nearby deposits. Early-stage works for the expansion are already underway, with full construction expected to begin in 2026 and first concentrate production targeted for 2028.

“We’re proud to partner with Sandvik for this important contract,” said Xiancheng Wang, chairman of JCHX Mining Management Group. “Sandvik’s reputation for high-performance equipment and strong aftermarket support was key in our decision. This fleet will play a vital role in helping us deliver operational excellence and meet the ambitious production targets set for the Khoemacau site.”

JCHX Mining Management Co., Ltd. is a publicly listed company on the Shanghai Stock Exchange, boasting nearly 30 years of global mining experience. The company employs more than 16,000 people worldwide, including 8,000 across Africa, and provides contract mining, engineering, and mine construction services across multiple continents.