News from AIIS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
David Phelps, President, AIIS March 30, 2010 Tel: 703-245-8075 phelps@aiis.org
Imports Decline in February
Increased Slab Imports Signal Stronger Market
McLean, VA, March 30, 2010 – Imports declined 5.3 percent in February compared to January 2010 and also declined by 1 percent compared to February 2009, based on preliminary reporting. “While imports of slabs were down in February compared to January, they are up by 128 percent compared to 2009 on a year to date basis and are signaling improved market conditions for products made by domestic integrated producers,” said Phelps, president, AIIS.
“We believe that the shorter month and difficult winter weather in large portions of the US in February resulted in lower import reporting in February. With domestic demand strengthening and steel price increases being accepted in the market, we do not believe that the decline in February is the beginning of a negative trend for imports,” concluded Phelps.
Total Steel imports in February 2010 were 1.6 million tons compared to 1.7 million tons in January 2010, a 5.3 % decrease, and a 1 % decrease compared to February 2009. According to year-to-date figures, imports decreased 18.2% compared to 2009 or from 4 million tons in 2009 to 3.2 million tons in 2010. The data show that imported semifinished products increased by 227.1% in February 2010 as compared to February 2009. For the year-to-date period, semifinished imports increased from 322 million tons in 2009 to 737 million tons in 2010, a 128.8% increase, based on preliminary reporting.
The American Institute for International Steel is the only steel related association which supports free trade. The Institute accomplishes our mission through Advocacy, Networking, Communications and Education.
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