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Copper Market in 2026: Inventory Paradox Meets Structural Demand
Copper prices continue to be underpinned by long-term demand themes: electrification, grid expansion, AI data center growth, and a gradual recovery in global manufacturing. However, these structural drivers are not yet visible in physical market indicators. In China, the key marginal buyer, spot premiums have moved to a discount of around 60 yuan per tonne, while Yangshan import premiums remain subdued at $34 per tonne. This reflects inventory financing activity and cautious downstream purchasing rather than a contraction in end-use demand, with fabricators deferring restocking due to ample nearby supply. The result ... (full story)