7. Economic data

Long considered a strategic metal, copper has been subject to erratic prices, depending on conflicts, social unrest or technical problems in producing countries. Today, copper prices are calmer, more in line with supply and demand. The price of copper is not at the mercy of major fluctuations in the event of a sudden change in one of the two economic components. Copper is listed in Europe on the London Metal Exchange (LME). In 2000, world production of refined copper totalled 14.8 million tonnes, and the percentage used in the cable industry is between 50 and 60%, by far the largest sector.

World production of primary aluminum exceeded 24.5 million tonnes in 2001. The proportion used in cables is modest, around 5%.

The most important producers are the United States, Canada, Russia and Europe. The last ten years have seen the emergence of...