Imported Steel Sheet Stock Decreases at Japan Quays

Import stocks of steel sheet and plate are steadily decreasing at Japanese quays in Tokyo and Osaka area, according to the research by Hanwa Co., Ltd. The quay stocks of steel plate, hot- and cold-rolled steel coil decreased by 18% to 294,000 tonnes in Tokyo and Osaka area at the end of March from a month ago. In Tokyo the stocks decreased to the level in August-September in 2004 and oversupply mood is gradually reduced in the market after steel sheet supply was easy due to much imports. In Osaka the quay stock decreased to the level in spring 2005, though the cold-rolled coil still remains at the high level.