H-Beam Price Could Increase in Tokyo

H-beam market price is flat at 73,000-74,000 yen per tonne around Tokyo. The dealers try to find the timing to pass higher cost price on the reselling price when the makers increased the selling price by 5,000 yen.

The dealers’ inventory was expected to increase slightly at end April from March. Their shipment decreases while the makers’ shipment decreased for the dealers. The dealers expect lower shipment in May, which could result in higher stock in May.

The demand could be slow due to limited availability of construction labor while the potential demand increases for reinforcement of existing building.

The dealers watch price announcement by Tokyo Steel Manufacturing. Electric furnace steel makers’ cost is expected to increase by around 2,000 yen per tonne due to higher raw materials cost. The makers could pass higher cost on the selling price.