Weak Hot Rolled Sheet Price around Tokyo

Hot rolled sheet market price is weak tone at 60,000-61,000 yen per tonne for base size around Tokyo. Japanese coil centers’ operation rate rebounded to near 70% in September compared with the peak level, according to Japan coil center association. Output of automobile or electric appliance makers recovered and sheet export increased. But coil centers’ shipment is low for building materials. Japanese non-housing floor area decreased for 7 consecutive months.

All sheet market prices dropped when Tokyo Steel Manufacturing reduced the selling price of steel sheet for November orders and Chinese steel market price is dropping. Users maintain low order volume. A dealer source said users’ orders decreased for September-October from July-August. Users are requiring price cut to dealers. The market price is expected to keep weak situation.