1987 saw a change in trends on many international raw materials markets. Prices, which had been under pressure for several years, began to rise again. This trend cannot be expected to continue everywhere in 1988, however.

The monetary policy discussion centering around the dollar and the economic policy measures of the US Administration have been causing great confusion In some of the world’s commodity markets. The general uncertainty Is likely to persist In the markets In 1972.

For two years now the international raw materials markets have been characterised by a lasting slump. The weak and short-lived reactions to the Falklands crisis and to the intensification of hostilities between Israel and its Arab neighbours are indicative of the situation. During this year's...