"There is no end in sight in the near future to the gloomy sentiment surrounding China's economic recovery," Commerzbank said.

Spot prices of China-bound iron ore have also climbed this month, buoyed by improved demand.

The world's largest copper producing nation, which accounts for a quarter of the world’s mined metal, has seen its output stagnate

The average annual production of Wildcat and Mountain View plus the DeLamar project, on a combined basis, is expected to exceed 200,000 oz. AuEq.

Either inventory rebuilds over the seasonal summer soft spot for northern hemisphere demand, or the market is going to have to rethink just how much copper is really out there, writes Andy Homes.

China will roll out more practical, effective measures to expand domestic demand and stoke market vitality, Premier Li said.

Gold has shed about 2.2% this month – set for a second consecutive monthly fall if losses hold.

Shares in Premier African Minerals plunged 40% on Monday.