BHP and KGHM Polska Miedลบ have signed a memorandum of understanding that opens a new chapter in their relationship, creating a framework to identify BHP KGHM copper opportunities across the globe. The agreement, signed on September 8, 2026, sets the stage for the two mining companies to exchange technical expertise, compare operating practices and assess areas of mutual interest that could extend well beyond the regions where they currently operate.
The memorandum of understanding does not commit either party to a specific project. Instead, it provides a structured platform through which teams from both companies can evaluate where combining their capabilities might support additional copper growth in the years ahead.
Expanding an Existing Relationship in Chile
The new memorandum of understanding builds on an existing copper cooperation between BHP and KGHM in Chile, where the two miners have previously worked together to improve their respective operations. Under the expanded framework, the companies will initially refine shared priorities and determine where knowledge sharing and comparisons of operational practices could produce tangible benefits.
“The world will need more copper, driven by traditional economic growth, the energy transition, and digital investments,” BHP CEO Brandon Craig said. “We are focused on unlocking high returning growth through innovative partnerships like this one.”
KGHM president Remigiusz Paszkiewicz echoed that perspective, noting that the signed agreement provides a structured framework for further discussions and opens the way for an in-depth analysis of potential areas of copper cooperation.
KGHM is the European Union’s largest producer of mined copper and holds operations and assets in Poland, the United States, Canada and Chile. BHP operates major mining and resource projects across Australia, Canada, Chile, Peru, Brazil and the United States. The ability of both companies to venture beyond their existing footprints could widen the pool of prospective projects available to each miner, though no specific locations or investments have been announced.
Shared Technical Expertise as a Foundation for Growth
A central element of the memorandum of understanding is the exchange of technical expertise between two organisations that operate across different regions and jurisdictions. KGHM vice-president Anna Sobieraj-Kozakiewicz said this kind of knowledge sharing could benefit the wider mining industry.
“The MoU provides a platform for engagement between KGHM and BHP and reflects our shared interest in exchanging perspectives and exploring potential opportunities for future collaboration,” she said.
The BHP KGHM copper opportunities gives both companies a structure to assess potential projects and determine where their combined technical capabilities could unlock additional copper growth. However, it is important to note that the memorandum of understanding remains an exploratory framework. The companies are expected to first refine their priorities and evaluate where copper cooperation could generate tangible value before any further commitments are made.
By establishing this mining partnership, BHP and KGHM have created a clear pathway for dialogue around BHP KGHM copper opportunities, while maintaining the flexibility to pursue or step back from specific initiatives as their joint assessment progresses.