SUMMARY
Copper China’s imports of copper surged in April. Exports reduced.
Nickel Prices up to two-yr high on plant closures and ban on ore exports. .
Zinc & Lead Zn mines closing but currently no sign of tension in Zn concentrate market (yet). .
Tin New lead-free solar cells designed, using Sn to substitute for Pb. .
Aluminium Kurri Kurri aluminium smelter to close.
Gold India’s gold imports declined in April, due to government restrictions.
Platinum & Palladium Lonmin anticipates a mass return-to-work.
Oil Venezuela announced electricity and water rationing.
Coal US met-coal producers struggling to complete. Aust. Small-caps continue to progress projects.
Iron Ore CISA says steel production has plateaued, though iron & steel participants have other views. .
Shipping Cape rates supported by iron ore trade.
General
Australian electricity market turned to a surplus of supply capacity.
China transport data continues to point to economic growth.