Metal prices have been rising since 2003. During 2003-2006, gold & aluminum prices became two times higher, and copper & zinc prices 4∼5 times higher. In particular, 2006 prices were skyrocketing, and the comparison of selected metal prices between 2005 and 2006 indicates steep rise; zinc (236%), copper (183%), nickel (165%), gold (136%) and aluminum (135%). The current higher metal prices are supported by expanding metal demands by BRICs countries (Brazil, Russia, China and India), and inflow of speculative market into mineral commodities. The current higher metal prices have a great influence on non-ferrous metals industry, and is creating several issues from the viewpoint of countries, corporation, and stake holders.
This paper includes (1) current soaring prices of non-ferrous metals, (2) impact of higher metal prices on world major companies and (3) influences of current world mining business on Japanese smelting companies.
Along with the soaring metal prices during 2003-2007, world major mining companies (Majors) rose record of high level profits particularly in 2006, which promoting M & A (Merger and Acquisition), and/or higher convergence of Majors. The analysis of influences of world mining trends on Japanese smelting companies will be summarized as is shown below;
(1) M & A brought the higher convergence of Majors. For example, copper mining production rates by best 5 companies rose from 32% in 1990 to 41% in 2006.
(2) Under the competitive copper concentrate market due to the emergence of China, Japanese smelting companies are confronting with difficulties in TC/RC (Treatment Charge and Refining Charge) negotiations with Majors such as BHP Billiton.
