China has tradtionally been the world's leading tungsten producer, accounting for 85% of the world's production, estimated at 35 000 t of tungsten concentrate. China's tungsten production does not seem to be affected by the slump in global pruices as production remains at about 70% capacity. This compares to 10% production capacity exhibited by western producers. China's wolframite reserves are being rapidly depleted with an estimated 12 years reserves or 600 000 t remaining.