Copper prices fell on Thursday, tensions trade between the United States and China and the uncertainty created by the the closure of the American government having weighed on the morale of investors, while a weak dollar provided some support.

The reference copper at the Metals Exchange of London (LMS) was down 0.7% to $10,566 per ton at 09:23 GMT. Concerns about supply shortages due to disruptions Mining companies have pushed prices to their highest level in 16 months, at 11,000 dollars per ton last week.

Precious metal traders reported that concerns about manufacturing growth and demand, particularly in China, the main consumer country, had resurfaced and that Some companies banking on the rise in copper prices were reducing their positions.

Aluminum at three months a gained 0.4% to 2,755 USD per ton, zinc fell by 0.1% to 2,943 USD, the lead changed little at USD 1,982, tin rose by 0.3% to USD 35,500, while nickel fell by 0.1% to USD 15,175