SHANGHAI, Jan. 7 (SMM) –BHP Billiton is seeking a 3% rise in copper ore prices for the 2010-2011 period from Pan Pacific Copper Co.. 

Price increases of copper, aluminum, zinc and other base metals could be the result of stronger demand in China. If Pan Pacific Copper Co. accepts price increases asked by BHP Billiton, this will be the first time for copper ore prices to advance in two years.

The price increases will involve 50% of copper ores to be purchased from Chile's Escondida copper mine for the 2010-2011 period.

(Edited by SMM)