The corporate mentioned that a median of 20.8% of world copper smelter capability monitored was inactive in Might in contrast with 17.4% in the identical month final yr.
“International inactivity reached 25.4% on eighth Might… with seasonal upkeep closures remaining a key function,” Earth-i mentioned in a press release.
In China, three smelters that had been closed for upkeep on the finish of April have resumed actions whereas Xingguang Copper, Shandong Fangyuan and Hunchun are actually shut, it added.
The Chinese language-owned Lualaba smelter within the Democratic Republic of Congo additionally seemed to be closed for upkeep, Earth-i mentioned.
(By Eric Onstad; Enhancing by Jason Neely)