Higher Plate Steel Price in Osaka

Plate steel market price reached 115,000 yen per tonne level for standard size with 19 millimeters thick, 5 feet width and 10 feet length around Osaka. The price could reach 120,000 yen toward May. The dealers expect the price could increase more than 120,000 yen when the makers prepare for another hike. The market price reached 100,000 yen per tonne end of 2007. The price increased by 2,000-3,000 yen in January, 3,000-5,000 yen in February and 9,000-10,000 yen in March. Japanese integrated steel makers increased the selling price by 20,000 yen for April shipment and the pressure lifted the market price. Japanese makers try to meet strong demand for shipbuilding and machinery along with materials for large diameter pipe while the makers reduce the shipment for distributors. Japanese plate import decreases to monthly 10,000 tonnes. With the limited supply, the dealers’ market experiences tight supply and the market price keeps increasing.