Japan, Steel Maker Reduces Steel Sheet Output

Japanese each integrated steel maker will enhance the measure for the supply and demand of steel sheet because steel sheet stock exceeded 4 million tonnes which is decent level and the dealers’ shipment was slow due to the revision of building standard law. They will reduce the supply to building material makers. Some maker reduced the supply by over 10% in October-December compared with the same period of last year.

Steel sheet demand is firm due to increased automobile export against low sales for domestic market, and due to increased sales for flat-screen television. Japanese integrated steel maker source prospected Japanese manufacturing industry keeps good situation.

However, the demand for building material is decreasing due to the revision of building standard law in June.　Especially, the recovery of the shipment for the material for roofing and walling is seemed to delay to February 2008.

Domestic steel sheet inventory increased to 4.248 million tonnes at the ended of August. Japanese integrated steel makers select the acceptance order more than ever and advance the measure for the supply and demand. They reduce the output and increased the export or the supply for steel plate.