by James West on 8th Aug, 2008, 11:10:50 AM EST

The world’s number one producer of Copper is Chile, and there is no sign that 2009 will see any slowdown in activity. Copper is central to Chile’s economy and the country’s largest mines, such as those owned by state run copper company Codelco, pay some of the highest wages, averaging $40,000 a year.

Since it produces 10 percent of the world copper supply, prices are affected when events such as the strikes that are once again threatened, the copper price goes up on supply concerns.

This time, the miners are threatening to strike unless the government initiates discussion on nationalizing Chile’s resources. And three of the country’s most powerful unions are uniting to put pressure on the presidential candidates in the upcoming federal elections due in 2009.

The rhetoric is tactical however.