Copper rose sharply.

Copper has risen 15 percent this year while aluminum has gained 12.8 percent, nickel 44.1 percent, and zinc 20.4 percent.

Copper rose to a three-month high amid speculation that demand in China was increasing, helping offset increased production.

Copper for September delivery rose 2.75 cents, to 90.55 cents a pound, its highest since June 20.

Copper for July delivery rose 3.25 cents, to $1.104 a pound, on the Commodity Exchange in New York.

Copper for December delivery rose 1.75 cents, to $1.3405 a pound, its highest price since Aug. 29.

Copper for delivery in September rose 3.10 cents, to $1.101 a pound, on New York's Commodity exchange.

Copper rose to a 15-month high as stockpiles declined.

Copper for July delivery rose 2.5 cents, to $1.335 a pound, on the Commodity Exchange, its highest price since April 19.

Copper in exchange-registered warehouses rose by 2,500 metric tons last week to 193,450, the London exchange said.