It is expected that the steel market in America would be a little bit down next year, the import volume is estimated to decrease 20% accordingly. The total import volume in 2006 is 44 million short ton, when the consumption is 135 million shot ton. According to International Iron and Steel Institute (IISI), the consumption of 2007 would drop to 126 ~ 128 million short ton even if the first quarter high stock levels improved. Based on the above mentioned terms, the import in 2007 in America would decrease 8-12 million short ton compared to 2006.
(Nov. 17)