During his recent visit to China, Norilsk Nickel General Director Denis Morozov said the Asian country would remain the main driving force behind the nickel market in 2008, following trends observed in the past few years.
Norilsk Nickel, one of the world's largest producers of nickel, palladium, platinum and copper, said it would continue its policy of signing direct contracts with large and medium Chinese companies experienced in foreign trade operations to strengthen ties with nickel consumers in China.
In addition, the company will further develop its distribution chain to ensure its nickel deliveries are available to Chinese companies.
Norilsk Nickel also said it will open a new specialized firm in Shanghai in 2008 that will complement its existing sales office in Hong Kong, and a representative office in Beijing.
Norilsk Nickel accounts for over 20% of global nickel output, more than 10% of cobalt and 3% of copper, its Russian share amounting to some 96%, 95% and 55%, respectively.
