Sources indicate that Glencore and Trafigura are aiming for spot prices in their negotiations for the sale of mined copper.

Glencore and Trafigura are urging Asian smelters to agree to lower spot prices for the conversion of mined copper into metal this year, challenging the traditional industry benchmarks that are considerably higher, according to three sources familiar with the situation. Traditionally, the industry has relied on annual benchmarks, known as treatment charges (TCs), for contracts…

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Tight supply of raw materials puts pressure on copper smelter margins in China.

The competition for mined copper resources is anticipated to increase, posing a challenge to Chinese firms responsible for half of the world’s refined copper production. Despite significant output cuts affecting the metal market, it is unlikely that these cuts will be substantial. Chinese copper producers, primarily state-owned, face pressure to uphold or elevate production targets…

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Codelco finalizes an agreement with the supervisors union at the Chuquicamata copper mine.

On Friday, Chile’s state-owned Codelco, the largest global copper producer, announced the successful negotiation of a new contract with the union representing supervisors in its Chuquicamata division. The agreement, impacting 658 individuals, incorporates incentives tied to goal achievement and enhanced productivity, according to the company’s statement. While the financial details remain undisclosed, the contract spans…

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Assessing the Balance: Is the Upside Worth the Risk in Copper-Rich Chile

Nationalization remains a prominent subject in mining discussions. With tightening supply chains and increasing strength in long-term demand drivers, resource-rich nations are striving to secure a larger portion of their mineral wealth. Throughout South America, Africa, and Asia, countries are challenging established norms that enable multinational miners to profit substantially from local resources. Although nationalization…

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First Quantum to unveil the preliminary preservation plan for the copper mine in Panama.

On Wednesday, the Panamanian branch of Canadian mining company First Quantum Minerals announced its intention to present the initial stage of its mine conservation plan to government authorities on January 16. This decision follows the closure order issued for its project last year. Due to a ruling by Panama’s highest court, citing the contract as…

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