JMB reported that Japanese integrated steel makers are concluding sheet steel contract export negotiation with users of Asian transplants of Japanese appliances makers for shipment in second half of fiscal 2009 ending March 2010.

The negotiation was deadlock since late August due to strong resistance for higher price by the buyers under higher Asian market price since May and lower Chinese market price since August 2009.

Some office automation equipment makers show sign to intention to accept certain price hike to secure the material stably under recovering production. The price is likely to increase by USD 60 to USD 80 per tonne from the first half level.

(Sourced from www.japanmetalbulletin.com)