From Inca post…

Chinese Nickel Imports Jump to 6-Year High as Shortage Looms

Goldman, Citigroup

An Indonesian ban on exports of nickel ore at the start of 2014 spurred China to stockpile the material and boost supplies from the Philippines, the only other major source. Inventories of nickel ore in China are now at their lowest since September 2011, according to data from Beijing Custeel E-Commerce Co.

http://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2015-07-21/nickel-imports-by-china-jump-to-six-year-high-as-shortage-looms

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and what’s could come to keep driving the price up!

The Philippines nickel heats up with Chinese demand

New legislation on exports

In a bid to tap into the estimated 9m ha of mineral resources, the government has been examining strategies to raise the sector’s overall economic contribution, such as seeking a bigger share of mining revenues and a move similar to Indonesia’s ban of exports of unprocessed ore. Value addition would improve industrialization, attract investment and help grow revenues it said.

http://www.oxfordbusinessgroup.com/news/philippines-nickel-heats-chinese-demand

and further…

Retired General Says China Could Reclaim Disputed South China Sea Reef From Philippines 'By Force'

http://www.ibtimes.com/retired-general-says-china-could-reclaim-disputed-south-china-sea-reef-philippines-2017354