IN 2000 there was a use of 1000 x 000 tonnes
IN 2015 there will be a use of + 2000 x 000 tonnes
Record high nickel prices encouraged nickel exploration
and enhanced the forecast feasibility of potential projects
and expansions in Canada. High prices more than offset
increased costs due to currency appreciation. The longer
the high prices persist, the greater the potential new output
from Canadian sources. A period of low prices may restrict
new capital expenditures, but at those operations where
investments have been made, production should continue in
the short term as long as operating costs are met. Looking
forward to 2020, Canadian production of recoverable
nickel in concentrate could be maintained well above
300 000 t/y, depending on the success of translating resources
to reserves, the likelihood of an agreement between
Xstrata and Vale Inco to obtain synergies in the Sudbury
Basin, and successes at fi nding new orebodies.
So bring on the nickel:)
