The net result is that tons of users are in pain from the transition.

ENGADGET: This is the Modem World: Please fix two things

China produces about 70% of the coal it consumes, in 2009 they produced 2.8 billion metric tons (2.37 billion for thermal coal) with net imports of about 104.2 million metric tons, according to UBS .

FORBES: Magazine Article

Until recent years, European central banks collectively were selling a few hundred tons of gold annually, resulting in net annual sales.

FORBES: Central Banks Buying To Diversify And Manage Risk

Implied net investment fell 11% to 164 million ounces (5, 099 tons), although this remained near historical highs, the Silver Survey said.

FORBES: Silver Survey: Investment Key To Silver-Price Action In 2011; Mine Supply Hits Record High

The net result was an annual demand increase of 13 percent to 510.9 tons.

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