Retrospective Analysis of the Global Metal Production

Abstract

Metallurgy is the cornerstone of the global economy. The distribution of key metal production by country reveals the global balance of productive forces. The journey to economic dominance has always started with a strong metallurgical foundation, which supported industries such as mechanical engineering, construction, and transport. An independent economy cannot exist without its own metal production, so analyzing the history of metal smelting provides insights into global industrial shifts and the rise of new economic centers. This study aims to examine the dynamics and structure of global metal smelting over the past half-century. The research constructs and analyzes time series data on ferrous and non-ferrous metal smelting by major producers from 1960 to 2023. It focuses on both immediate production trends and the key countries involved. Key chronological sections are identified, detailing the current situation, dynamics, and changes compared to previous periods. Statistical analysis reveals that following the global crises of 1973 and 1979, as well as the dissolution of the Soviet bloc, the global metallurgy industry underwent significant structural changes. The center of global production shifted from Western countries to developing nations, particularly China. This trend continues today: production in Europe and the USA is declining while Asia and Africa are seeing increased output.