Flat Hot Rolled Flat Steel Price in Tokyo

Hot rolled flat steel market price is flat at 68,000-70,000 yen per tonne for leveler processed materials in Tokyo. The dealers increased the offer price by 2,000-3,000 yen in the month and the market price increased by 1,000 yen. The price is likely to keep the level with higher stock level and very slow demand. The demand was slow due to transition process of new building standard law. Building start has decreased from a year earlier level since July. The demand is very low despite of the demand season. A dealer said the shipment is 10 years low. Domestic integrated steel makers try to reduce the inventory for better supply balance. The dealers try to increase the price level to improve the profitability. The higher import price is the supporting factor.