SMM Copper Wire & Cable Operating Rate Rises Slightly This Week, Expected to Dip Next Week Amid High Copper Prices

Published: Jan 30, 2026 15:34

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The operating rate of SMM copper wire and cable enterprises was 59.46% this week, up 0.75 percentage points WoW. Production this week was mainly carried out in an orderly manner based on previously retained orders, with the production pace largely consistent with the previous period and no wild swings observed, indicating strong overall production stability in the industry. By sector, orders from State Grid continued to be released, supplemented by scattered small orders in the market, providing additional support for production. However, copper prices hit another record high towards the end of the week, dampening downstream enthusiasm for cargo pick-up. Coupled with the approaching Chinese New Year holiday and weakening market demand, some enterprises have begun planning early holiday arrangements. Therefore, the operating rate is expected to decline by 2.82 percentage points WoW to 56.64% next week.

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