Its 2013 statistical yearbook, released today, tracked an increase in global copper output from 13.8 million tonnes recorded in 2013 to 16.7Mt in 2012.

Copper in concentrates rose by 18% over the 10-year period while solvent extraction-electrowinning production rose by 35%.

The SX-EW share of total mine production increased from 20% in 2003 to 22% in 2012.

World refined production increased from 15.3Mt in 2003 to 20.1Mt in 2012, with China's annual refined production more than tripling from 5.8Mt.

"Over the 2008-2012 period, as a result of numerous factors including lower head grades, labour unrest accidents, technical problems and temporary shutdowns or production cuts, capacity utilisation averaged 82% and mine production grew by a compound annual growth rate of only 1.8%," ICSG said.

"Mine production grew 3% per year during the preceding five years and averaged 2.2% over the 10-year period."

On a country-by-country basis, notable changes in mine production over 2003-2012 included increases of 876,000 tonnes in China, 530,000t in Chile and 503,000t in the Democratic Republic of Congo due to expansions and start-up of new projects.

ICSG said the revival of the African copper belt also played a role, leading to an increase in African copper mine output of 867,000t over the period.

Indonesia was a standout loser, with production declining 604,000t over the period.

Annual world copper usage increased by 31% over the period from 15.7Mt to 20.5Mt.

The growth driven by China, whose copper usage surged 186% in the 10 years to 2012.

China's share of world usage grew to 43% from 20% over the 10 years, while world usage excluding China decreased 7.3% due to the global economic recession.