Copper cathode (refined copper)

What it is

99.99% pure copper plates from smelters and refineries. Melted into wire rod, strips, tubes and alloys.

LME Grade A cathodeIS 191 copper (Cu-CATH)

Where India produces it

1. Gujarat

   Hindalco smelter; 0.36 million tonnes in 2023-24 (provisional).

2. Dadra & Nagar Haveli and Daman & DiuDadra and Nagar Haveli

   Vedanta refinery at Silvassa; 0.14 million tonnes in 2023-24.

3. JharkhandEast Singhbum

   Hindustan Copper's Indian Copper Complex, Ghatsila; no cathode output shown for 2023-24.

Where imports come from

Rising: refined copper imports doubled to 372,953 t in 2023-24 from 180,622 t; copper concentrate for smelters (1,016,303 t) is also imported, mainly from Indonesia, Chile and Peru.

• Japan — About 32% of copper and alloy imports in 2023-24
• Tanzania — About 20%
• Vietnam — About 7%

Rules before you buy or sell

• The Ministry of Mines withdrew the Quality Control Orders for aluminium, copper, primary lead, refined zinc and refined nickel on 13 November 2025, so the BIS mark is no longer compulsory for copper cathode (IS 191). The government can re-notify a QCO, so check the e-Gazette before you buy or import.
• Check the current import and export policy for your exact 8-digit HS code in the DGFT ITC(HS) schedules.

Storage and handling

Keep bundles strapped, dry and under cover; avoid contact with acids.

Businesses that use it

Copper Powder (Electrolytic) →Non-Ferrous Castings Foundry (Brass, Bronze, Gun Metal) →