ILZSG: Global Zinc Market In 290,000 Ton Surplus Jan-Jul

LONDON, Sept. 17 -- Chinese production and demand for lead rose sharply during January to July, keeping the world market in a modest surplus of 52,000 metric tons, the International Lead and Zinc Study Group said Wednesday.
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Chinese refined lead production increased by 22.6% on-year during the period, while its consumption rose by an even-larger 31.9%, offsetting declines in the U.S., Japan and Europe.
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The surplus compares to a 22,000-ton deficit in the same period of 2008.
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; World production stood at 5.148 million tons, up 3.5%. Greater Chinese output more than offset declines in Europe, the U.S. and Australia.
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; World refined lead consumption rose 2% to 5.096 million tons.
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Refined lead production for July totaled 769,500 tons, down from 770,500 tons in June, while consumption fell to 755,800 tons, down from 775,500 tons a month earlier.
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; World mine production in January-July dropped 3.6% because of lower output in Australia, Canada, Peru and the U.S.
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; (Source: Dow Jones)