Copper Rolled Products Demand Shows Recovery Sign in Japan

Market Research Committee of Tokyo Copper Alloy Products Distributors Association gave market review at press conference on Wednesday that brass bar shipment seemed improving in late February when copper ingot price soared. The committee also pointed out that the decline of new housing starts appeared to hit bottom in Japan which impacted the shipment of copper tubes. The committee showed expectation for better shipment of copper rolled products in and after March.Brass bar is the most purchased and resold by wholesalers among all copper rolled items. Dealers said brass bar users are increasing their procurement when copper ingot price sharply surged and brass bar price became relatively cheaper. However, actual demand for brass bar hasn’t recovered yet. Brass bar demand shows an improvement sign for water taps while maintains slow for gas appliances, industrial facilities, hydraulics and pneumatics machineries.The committee explained copper tube shipment keeps slow. Demand has declined and seemed not to recover soon due to the decrease of new housing starts in Japan, material shift from copper to other substitutions and more out-in production of air conditioners.On the other hand, shipment of copper and phosphor bronze sheet and strip sharply recovered in and after January for automobiles and cellular phones. Copper rolled product makers keep full production to meet strong demand from automakers. Makers’ shipment for wholesalers is decreasing and the delivery lead time is being longer to 3-4months.