Phrase "a matter of time"

[musicgold]

Hi,

I read the following first sentence in the media. I am confused about the use of ‘a matter of time’ phrase in the sentence. Can I replace #1 by #2 ?

1. We believe it is only a matter of time that the Chinese potassium sulphate price will increase to a substantially higher level.

2. We believe it is only a matter of time before the Chinese potassium sulphate price increase to a substantially higher level.

Thanks,

MG.

[Mister Micawber]

.
Yes, I think #2 is correct and #1 is wrong.
.
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