China has always been a very important part of the story of minor metals, but none more so than now. Because China, which is somehow blessed with the right geology, doesn't just produce them. It is now a top consumer of most minor metals – making it an even more important player in our markets. But China's rapid rise as an industrial power has caused tensions with the US and other developed countries which also covet those same metals for their manufacturing bases. This is driving changes in trade patterns, impacting prices and causing fears over future shortages. And the struggle for these relatively rare metals with special properties, is not just about today, but also tomorrow. They are key to the development of future technologies and industries that will shape society and the global economy for decades to come. So back in late December 2013, I gathered the Metal-Pages team at our offices in London to figure out how we could bring these various strands together into one event. Most minor metals conferences focus on just one or a few metals or markets, which of course works very well. But I thought we could go a step further. What about creating an annual event, which will eventually become a bit like LME week in October in London? Basically, it's a high profile networking opportunity giving participants the chance to meet and share knowledge with others in related industries and markets. Also, some market participants deal in a wide range of markets and metals – particularly procurement managers and traders. And this is how the idea of China Metals Week was born. Effectively, the first day of the event on Sept 16 will look at themes that affect a broad spectrum of markets and minor metals. These include the role of the Fanya Metal Exchange (they will be speaking) through to China's economic policies and their impact on our markets. The second day breaks out into individual streams focusing on electronic metals, battery metals, light metals and antimony. That meets the need for those wanting more specialist content. And the reason for choosing China is simple – according to the European Commission, China supplies 48 out of 54 key materials they identified as important. China also supplies 18 out of the 20 raw materials identified as critical by the Commission. The American Resources Policy Network said China is a top provider of 18 metals and minerals for which the US is 91-100% import-dependent. So this should hopefully combine the best of both worlds – of bringing many different strands of the minor metals industry together, whilst also providing the specialist streams.
