Crude steel demand in Japan expected to increase
Based on the data released from Japan Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, demand for steel materials will amount to 25.22 million tons in January-March 2004 period, up by 2.2% compared to same period last year. Furthermore, the demand of crude steel will reach 27.6 million tons in the same period with an increase of 1.8%. Due to seasonal factors, demand for construction will decrease in the aforementioned period. However, the demand for automobile, construction machinery and shipbuilding will show an upward trend. In addition, the amount of special steel will be 4.87 million tons in January-March 2004 period.