Is this the copper century? China moves to shore up supplies from Africa for new energy push
critical minerals for
EV batteries , solar and defence systems, but now copper is emerging as a key element in the green energy transition.
Recognising this, China is strategically positioning itself to secure copper supplies, especially from Africa, investing heavily in mining and processing facilities.
'Without copper, there will be no energy transition,' said Michael Finch, head of copper at Benchmark Mineral Intelligence.
This positioning coincides with Beijing facing heightened Western competition and restrictions, including, notably, from Canada's 2022 policy curbing Chinese acquisition of critical mineral assets.
16:09
How China is reshaping its economic ties with Africa
How China is reshaping its economic ties with Africa
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