In 1972 (1351H.), Sarcheshmeh Copper Mines Joint Stock Co of Kerman was established; and, later, in 1976 (1355H.), it was renamed as National Iranian Copper Industries Co to involve all copper mines operations throughout the country. This company has numerous responsibilities to do including extraction and utilization of copper mines, production of copper concentrates and manufacturing copper products such as cathodes, slabs, billets and 8mm wire rods.

Sarcheshmeh and Miduk mines in Kerman province and Sunegoon mine in eastern Azarbaiejan province are of the most significant copper mines in the country.

Sarcheshmeh Copper Complex is located 160 km southwest of Kerman and 50 km south of Rafsanjan. The region's altitude averages about 2600 m, the highest spot of which approximates 3000 m. Sarcheshmeh ore bodies, situated in the central part of Zagros ranges, consist of folded and faulted early tertiary volcano- sedimentary rocks. Production units of Sarcheshmeh Copper Complex involve the mine itself, concentrator, smelter, refinery, foundries and leaching.