STRABAG subsidiary ZÜBLIN wins major Codelco contracts for Chuquicamata underground expansion

STRABAG’s subsidiary ZÜBLIN has secured two large-scale contracts from Codelco to advance the underground transformation of the Chuquicamata copper mine in Chile. The project includes more than 54 kilometres of tunnelling and critical infrastructure works, with completion targeted for 2031 and a workforce of around 1,200.

STRABAG subsidiary ZÜBLIN has been awarded two significant engineering and construction contracts by Codelco for works at the Chuquicamata Underground Mine, known as Mina Norte, in Chile. According to company disclosures, the scope covers excavation of more than 54 kilometres of tunnels along with associated infrastructure, forming part of a long-term plan to convert the historic open-pit operation into a modern underground mine by 2031.

The development is designed to prolong the productive life of one of the world’s largest copper deposits while enhancing environmental performance through updated underground mining systems. Approximately 1,200 workers are expected to be deployed, positioning the project among the most substantial mining construction undertakings currently in Chile.

Codelco, Chile’s state-owned copper producer and one of the largest copper suppliers globally, is central to the country’s fiscal revenues and export economy. STRABAG, headquartered in Austria, operates internationally in construction and infrastructure, with decades of experience in Chilean mining districts including Chuquicamata, El Teniente and Candelaria.

For the mining and engineering sectors, the contracts underscore sustained capital expenditure in copper, a metal critical to electrification and renewable energy systems. The project is likely to support regional employment, specialist contractors and equipment suppliers, while reinforcing Chile’s position in global copper supply chains amid rising demand linked to energy transition investments.