Japan Die-casting Output Hits Record in 2007

Japanese die-casting output increased by 3.2% to record 1.158 million tonnes in 2007 from 2006, according to Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry. The output value increased by 8.4% to 731.737 billion yen under the market growth. The output is expected to keep firm with strong demand for automobile. The die-casting output for automobile increased by 4.2% to 957,701 tonnes in 2007 from 2006. The value increased by 9.7% to 568.418 billion yen. The aluminium die-casting output increased by 3.5% to record 1.117 million tonnes in 2007 from 2006. The output increased by 4.5% to 936,566 tonnes for automobile and by 7.4% to 30,743 tonnes. The automobile application grew to near 1 million tonnes level. The output for some applications was slower when the output deceased by 1.1% to 60,550 tonnes for machinery, by 5.4% to 51,092 tonnes for motorcycle and by 1.8% to 38,323 tonnes for other use. The zinc die-casting output decreased by 4.3% to 34,251 tonnes in 2007 from 2006. The volume continued to decrease while the value increased slightly. The secondary alloyed aluminium output and shipment hit record in 2007 due to higher die-casting output. The shipment for die-casting increased by 6.7% to 616,901 tonnes in 2007 from 2006.