LME base metals prices show downtrend d-o-d

  • BHP pushes for faster permits in Chile’s mining industry
  • Ghana Bauxite targets production of 6 mnt by CY’25-end

Base metals prices on the London Metal Exchange (LME) declined on 8 April 2025, with nickel experiencing the steepest drop of 1.28% d-o-d. LME-registered warehouse inventories saw mixed trends, with zinc dropping by 1.95% d-o-d.

COMEX market

Copper prices on the COMEX stood at $9,072/tonne (t), down 4.5% compared to the previous close.

Indian market overview

In India’s non-ferrous metals markets, BigMint assessed domestic copper armature scrap at INR 750,000/t ex-Delhi. Aluminium Tense scrap prices remained stable d-o-d, with ex-Delhi and ex-Chennai at INR 183,000/t.

Key updates

Ghana Bauxite targets production of 6 mnt by year-end

Ghana Bauxite Company (GBC) aims to produce 6 million tonnes (mnt) of bauxite by the end of 2025, backed by a $122.97 million investment in new equipment and infrastructure. This follows a significant boost in production, with output reaching 1.8 mnt in 2024. Under new ownership by Ofori-Poku Company, GBC has increased staff and expanded operations, fostering local economic growth.

BHP pushes for faster permits in Chile’s mining industry

BHP is prepared to invest $13 billion in upgrading copper mines in Chile but faces delays due to slow processes for obtaining permits. The company has urged the government to act swiftly, with projects such as Escondida’s $2.3 billion plant upgrade and a $1.3 billion restart of Cerro Colorado depending on timely approvals. Without action, Chile’s copper output could fall significantly.

Oil prices fall d-o-d

Brent crude futures were recorded at $60.79/barrel today. Meanwhile, WTI crude oil futures decreased by 3.61% d-o-d at $57.43/barrel.

Natural gas prices up

Natural gas stood at $3.50/metric million British thermal unit (MMBtu), up by 1.01% d-o-d.

Dollar index inches down

The dollar index, which measures the value of the greenback against a basket of six major currencies, hovered at 101.94, down by 0.74% d-o-d at the time of reporting. The Indian rupee was recorded at INR 86.53 d-o-d against the dollar.