Japan Cu Alloy Fabricators in Full Production of Sheet and Strip

Japanese copper and copper alloy fabricators are in full capacity production of sheets and strips to meet strong demand for semiconductor leadframe and automotive connector pins. Several concerns expect high operations could continue by September at least.

Domestic production of copper and copper alloy sheet and strip sharply decreased in January 2009 while turned to gradual recovery in April 2009. Home appliance productions have increased in China and Japanese government’s tax rebate policy for eco-friendly cars pushed up automakers’ productions.

Japanese copper strip production recovered to 20,000 tonnes per month in September 2009 after 11 months and brass strip production reached 10,000 tonnes per month in March 2010, according to Japan Copper & Brass Association.

Major copper fabricators cannot accept full orders recently. On the other hand, one of small and medium sized fabricators said the demand recovery is not so strong for connector pins from private sectors as expected. Fabricators are trying to improve productivity without increasing employee number.

The demand may weaken in October in response to the end of Japanese government’s tax rebate policy for eco-cars. Most copper fabricators suppose their operations wouldn’t slow immediately with order backlogs but cautiously watch the market conditions.