Equal Angle and Channel Steel Prices in Uptrend

Shape steel price is increasing around Tokyo. The market price is at 70,000 yen per tonne for equal angle with 6 millimeters thick and 50 mm width and at 75,000-76,000 yen per tonne for channel with 5 millimeters thick and 50 by 100 mm width at dealers’ reselling price without freight.The price is in uptrend but not so strong to increase immediately with higher inventory than shipment in the market. Inventory volume is relatively larger for channel steel than equal angle steel. As to equal angle, there is stock out in some size and length while overstock for other sizes with less demand.Shape steel makers continue to reduce order acceptance volume. On the other hand, some makers plans regular maintenance this month and increased output temporarily. The market inventory is surplus under the situation.Angle steel price increased by 1,000 yen per tonne under increasing demand. Equal angle and channel steels are expected to follow the price up of angle steel.