JMB reported that Japanese integrated steel makers started sheet steel export price negotiation this week for January to March 2009 shipment.

Some makers apparently offered more than USD 550 per tonne FOB for hot rolled coil for South Korean rerollers and other buyers. The makers try to increase around USD 50 for cold rolled and coated flat steel from October to December shipment.

The suppliers and buyers still try to find market trend including other suppliers in China and South Korea.

(Sourced from www.japanmetalbulletin.com)