FLAT PRODUCTS

摘要

Demand for hot rolled plate remains subdued in the United States. Industrial activity across a wide area has been hit by the adverse weather associated with the "polar vortex". Stockists in the affected regions have, consequently, cut back on their purchase volumes. Many planned project starts are being delayed until economicconditions improve. The rate of growth in the Japanese economy has slowed in recent months. Market values for stainless steel are unchanged despite the mills' desire for increases to cover higher input costs. The leading producer, Posco, and distributors in South Korea tried to increase prices for February. However, domestic customers were not prepared to pay more than the January figures.