As the Russia-Ukraine war disrupted production and logistics, Japanese manufacturers began to explore alternative sources of Russian raw materials.

Nippon Steel imports iron ore from Russia and Ukraine, as well as coking coal from Russia. The two countries account for about 14% of the company's total iron ore pellet imports.

Nippon Steel Executive Vice President Shinichi Nakamura said last Thursday that the company planned to increase purchases from Australia, Brazil, and elsewhere if the fighting drags on.

JFE Steel imports 18% of its coking coal from Russia. It is also considering alternative supply options, such as Australia and Canada.