US copper problem is processing, not supply, study finds
New data highlights the need for processing of the metal vital for power grids and electronics, rather than stockpiling
New data highlights the need for processing of the metal vital for power grids and electronics, rather than stockpiling

Data centres and green grids are heavy users of the red metal, but mine supply is stagnating and new discoveries are rare

Market hit by disruption to production and Donald Trump’s tariffs

Washington follows through with plans to impose 50% levies on some products

Analysts expect demand for industrial metal to outstrip mined supply by 2030s

Data group forecasts deficit of 10mn tonnes by 2040, equivalent to nearly one-third of current global demand

Fee earned to turn concentrate into the refined metal falls further into negative territory this year