SMM Official Announcement: Launch of CIF Southeast Asia EQ Copper Cathode B/L Premium

In recent years, manufacturing sectors in Southeast Asia—particularly in Vietnam, Thailand, and Malaysia—have witnessed rapid development. The sustained growth in demand for high-quality copper cathodes from industries such as electronics, automotive, and power has significantly outpaced local production capabilities. As a result, copper supply in the region is highly reliant on imports.

To enhance trade transparency and improve price discovery efficiency, Shanghai Metals Market (SMM) is pleased to announce the official launch of the CIF Southeast Asia EQ copper cathode B/L Premium Assessment. This pricing reference will serve as a benchmark for transaction settlement in regional copper trade. The assessment will be available starting June 2, 2025 (the first working week), and historical pricing will be accessible via the official SMM website (www.smm.cn).

Price Definition:
This price reflects the daily premium, on a CIF basis, for LME Grade A copper cathode (conforming to 99.9935% Cu purity standards) delivered via bill of lading to major Southeast Asian ports including but not limited to Bangkok, Laem Chabang, Port Klang, and Manila. The premium is quoted relative to the LME 3-month benchmark contract plus QP (quotation period) adjustment.

Data Collection:
SMM will collect relevant pricing data from designated contributing entities based on signed agreements. Price analysts will contact contributors’ designated contacts through telephone, instant messaging, fax, or email between 9:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. (Beijing time) on each trading day. Data submitted after 11:30 a.m. or without the required minimum information will not be considered for that day’s assessment. Accepted data may include concluded transactions, best-expected transaction levels, offers, and bids. Collection frequency is determined based on the volume and frequency of trades by each contributor, and while not all contributors are surveyed daily, contact will be maintained at least twice per week.

Price Publication:
The CIF Southeast Asia EQ copper cathode Premium will be published on every official Chinese trading day at 11:30 a.m. on the SMM website (www.smm.cn). In the event of unforeseen circumstances or force majeure (e.g., power outages or natural disasters), publication may be delayed. SMM will endeavor to notify the market of any such delays in a timely manner.

Methodology Revisions:
Given that all markets evolve, SMM is committed to regularly reviewing its methodologies to ensure alignment with current market dynamics. Based on industry feedback, SMM will conduct internal assessments and, for any non-urgent material changes, will initiate a formal public consultation process. Major changes will be announced with a minimum notice period of 28 days to solicit industry comments, unless shortened due to extraordinary circumstances such as force majeure (natural disasters, war, exchange insolvency, etc.).

For further inquiries or feedback regarding the CIF Southeast Asia EQ copper cathode Bill of Lading Premium, please contact:
Charles Ci
Tel: +86 21 5159 5967
Email: cihengyang@smm.cn