Chile, the biggest Copper producer, raised its price forecasts for this year and next, ING's commodity experts Ewa Manthey and Warren Patterson note.
"The country’s Copper agency Cochilco cited global supply disruptions, lower interest rates, a weaker dollar and global economic resilience. Copper is expected to average $4.45 a pound this year and $4.55 in 2026, according to Cochilco’s quarterly report. It previously forecast $4.30 for both this year and next."
"Copper supply has been hit by a wave of disruptions this year, including an accident at El Teniente mine in Chile in July."
"Cochilco now expects no production growth in Chile for the year, down from a previous forecast of 1.5%. In 2026, Chilean production is forecast to grow 2.5% to 5.6 million metric tonnes. However, a key assumption about next year's growth is that El Teniente will operate as normal, which Codelco says is unlikely."