Embodied copper. Trade, intensity of use and consumption forecasts

Net embodied US imports of copper are estimated. Added to conventional apparent consumption it is shown that domestic consumption (absorption) is understated and increasing, intensity of use is constant rather than decreasing and that, in general, forecast increases in domestic consumption of copper are due mainly to embodied copper imports. Forecast apparent consumption may be declining. Repercussions will be felt in the domestic primary copper industry.