Probleme der japanischen Kupferversorgung

Abstract

In the context of efforts which can be noted worldwide to insure raw material resources, the present supply and demand situation for copper in Japan is analyzed. Whereas Japan's natural copper resources are limited, the Japanese copper processing industry is forced to meet its long-term needs by drawing on foreign sources. Under the protection of the Japanese trade tariff system a copper smelting and refining industry has been built up which is largely dependent on imports of cupreous material input (ores and concentrates). Through long-term supply contracts, which are often tied to Japanese credits, and through part ownership of mining enterprises abroad, sufficient raw material supplies are assured past 1975. As an economic policy measure for stabilization of domestic and foreign copper prices the Ministry of International Trade and Industry has instigated the stockpiling of copper by industry. ln addition agencies have been set up to observe movements on the world copper market and exert an influence on price development on the world market by appropriate buying and selling of copper.