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International Copper Study Group facts for kids

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International Copper Study Group
ICSG Logo for Wiki.png
Abbreviation ICSG
Formation January 1992
Type Intergovernmental Organization
Legal status Active
Purpose Promote transparency in the global copper market
Headquarters Lisbon
Location
  • Portugal
Secretary-General
Paul White
Website www.icsg.org

The International Copper Study Group (ICSG) is a special group of countries that work together on everything about copper. These countries both produce copper and use a lot of it. The main goal of the ICSG is to make sure everyone knows what's happening in the copper market. They also help countries talk and work together on copper-related topics. Countries that are part of the ICSG produce and use about 85% of the world's copper.

What is the ICSG?

The idea for the ICSG was first discussed in 1989 in Geneva. Countries agreed to create it through a special international agreement. The ICSG officially started on January 23, 1992. Its main office is in Lisbon, Portugal. This city is also home to similar groups for nickel, lead, and zinc.

Why the ICSG is Important

The ICSG has three main goals:

  • Sharing Information: They want to make the copper market clear for everyone. This means sharing facts about how much copper is made, used, stored, and traded. They also predict how much copper will be needed in the future.
  • Working Together: The group helps countries cooperate on copper issues. This includes topics like health, the environment, new technologies, and trade rules.
  • A Place to Talk: The ICSG is the only international group just for copper. It's a place where governments and copper companies can meet. They discuss common problems and goals related to copper.

How the ICSG Helps

The ICSG keeps one of the most complete collections of facts and figures about copper. Every month, they publish reports with detailed information. These reports cover copper production from mines, factories, and refineries. They also show how much copper is used, how much is stored, and its prices.

The group also shares information about copper mines and factories around the world. They even publish a yearly guide about companies that make copper products. Delegates from member countries and industry experts meet twice a year. These meetings usually happen in April and October.

The ICSG offers a free guide called the World Copper Factbook on its website. This guide gives a quick look at the global copper market.

Who are the Members of ICSG?

Any country that produces, trades, or uses copper can join the ICSG. As of 2024, there are 26 members, including the European Union.

Current Members

Past Members

Seven countries were once full members of the ICSG:

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