Abstract: A process for thermal activation of chalcopyrite-pyrite ore concentrates for activation of iron values in both chalcopyrite and pyrite constituents whereby said iron values can be selectively removed in a subsequent acid leach. Controlled oxidizing conditions are maintained in an oxidizing heating zone for removal of up to about 90% of total sulfur to be removed for conversion of pyrite and chalcopyrite to their acid-leachable forms, measured by a preferable oxidation of 10 to 15% of iron in the concentrate to ferromagnetic oxides, whereby remaining total sulfur to be removed is removed in a reducing zone with the assistance of a low H.sub.2 S/(H.sub.2 +H.sub.2 S) ratio by scavenging of H.sub.2 S by said oxides.