Refined copper prices posted impressive gains in 2017, although scrap metal spreads widened at the same time, indicating physical market dynamics were getting out of synch with terminal markets. China’s efforts to restrict scrap imports and tighten allowable carried waste levels are adding another layer of uncertainty to supply-demand dynamics for copper scrap as well as for mined and refined copper. Our invited experts will share their views on what’s really driving the copper and copper scrap markets, what are the key factors to look out for going forward, and how China is likely to impact the global copper scrap market this year.

Refined copper prices posted impressive gains in 2017, although scrap metal spreads widened at the same time, indicating physical market dynamics were getting out of synch with terminal markets. China’s efforts to restrict scrap imports and tighten allowable carried waste levels are adding another layer of uncertainty to supply-demand dynamics for copper scrap as well as for mined and refined copper. Our invited experts will share their views on what’s really driving the copper and copper scrap markets, what are the key factors to look out for going forward, and how China is likely to impact the global copper scrap market this year. [less]