Copper prices plummeted on Friday, driven by growing apprehension over demand from China. The Asian nation is a key consumer of the industrial metal, and recent economic data has fueled worries about a potential slowdown.

Benchmark copper on the London Metal Exchange (LME) fell sharply, reflecting the negative sentiment. Analysts cited a combination of factors contributing to the price decline, including:

• Weaker-than-expected manufacturing data from China
• Concerns about the stability of the Chinese stock market
• A stronger US dollar, which makes dollar-denominated commodities more expensive for buyers using other currencies

The price drop has impacted major copper producers, with shares of mining companies also experiencing declines. Market participants are closely monitoring developments in China for further indications of economic health and potential policy responses.

Some analysts believe that the current price weakness may present a buying opportunity for long-term investors, while others remain cautious, citing the uncertainty surrounding the Chinese economy. The near-term outlook for copper prices is likely to remain volatile, with market sentiment heavily influenced by news flow from China.