Weak Column Price in Tokyo

Market price of large diameter square steel pipe or column is weak at around 103,000-105,000 yen per tonne including cut and groove processing charges at dealers’ site around Tokyo. Dealers continue sales competition when the demand recovery for building materials is delayed. Makers’ price hike hasn’t penetrated among dealers.

Dealers’ inventory kept flat in mid October from September. Dealers’ shipment is decreasing by 10% per day in October from September. There are more business days in October than in September but many dealers forecast their sales decrease month-to-month. Delivered products to dealers also decreased in October.

The users are requiring severe price cut to dealers. Column makers are trying to raise the selling price but dealers are disapproving.