Problems with coated steel

摘要

Price-inflating zinc-market fundamentals leaned toward high prices in 2004 when global use rose by 5.6%,well ahead of the 4.8% forecast.But 2005 has become a question mark.The projected 5.8% demand growth forecast is in jeopardy.In fact,even the more conservative 4.3% demand increase projected by the International Lead Zinc Study Group may not occur.Reason:The possibility that high crude-oil prices will cut economic growth in the U.S.and Europe,two major world zinc-consuming regions.The experts foresee continued reduced purchasing of galvanized steel sheet by the automakers and auto parts producers.World production was expected to expand slowly,anyway,due to short supply of concentrates,the raw materials smelted into metal.So,say the mavens,the world's refined zinc market should continue to exhibit a deficit.In addition,Chinese exports may keep moving downward in 2005,and some analysts are even suggesting that China will be a net importer.The report from the Ministry of Natural Resources and Wildlife