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Top Gold Producer is Top Consumer, Too

  • December 04, 2009

Top Gold Producer 120409Already the world’s largest gold producer, China has replaced India as the world’s top gold consumer.

According to numbers from metals consultancy GFMS, China will consume 432 metric tons of gold this year from jewelry and investment demand. That’s about 10 metric tons more than India, which has long been the top consumer.

Central bank purchases are not included in these demand figures. India’s central bank recently purchased 200 metric tons worth nearly $7 billion from the International Monetary Fund, but China’s central bank has also been a net buyer this year.

With 1,054 metric tons of gold reserves already in its holdings, China’s central bank has the sixth-largest amount of gold reserves. Some forecasters say China plans to build its reserves to as much as 10,000 metric tons over the next decade.

China’s government has indirectly encouraged its citizens to purchase gold by reducing import taxes on gold jewelry and allowing some commercial banks to sell gold bars.

GFMS says gold appetite in India has been suppressed this year, likely due to high prices. If prices fall significantly, GMFS says, there is “huge latent demand in India and it will explode,” which could again put India on top among consumers.

All opinions expressed and data provided are subject to change without notice. Some of these opinions may not be appropriate to every investor. #09-845


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